Real Madrid are set to host Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu today, but have just one senior centre-back available following Nacho’s suspension and David Alaba’s injury.
Carlo Ancelotti faced a difficult decision over his team selection today as he had no natural option to partner Antonio Rudiger at the back.
He has now made his decision over which player will step outside their comfort zone today, and it now seems that Aurelien Tchouameni will drop into the back four.
Tchouameni as a centre-back
It has been claimed on RMTV that Tchouameni will start in the centre of defence, with Ferland Mendy returning to left-back and Eduardo Camavinga moving back to a midfield role.
Both Camavinga and Mendy have been considered as centre-back options, but it seems that Tchouameni is the best option considering his physicality.
Osasuna are likely to start with physical forward Ante Budimir upfront, and the Croatia international may fancy his chances in the air against a player who is not a natural centre-back.
The right option?
Ancelotti found himself desperately short of defensive options, but this is perhaps the right call.
If Tchouameni struggles in his new role, he can swap positions with Camavinga or Mendy in-game, and the trio can fluidly rotate if necessary, without needing a substitute.
Real Madrid will head to the Santiago Bernabeu knowing that a victory would see them head into the international break top of La Liga, but they will be wary of any hangover from their dramatic victory away at Napoli on Tuesday.
Tchouameni has been vital this season. He was described as “incredible” during the World Cup last year, but saw his form dip after the tournament.
He has been back to his best, with Real Madrid winning every game in which he has started, and losing the Madrid derby where he was surprisingly on the bench.
Ancelotti will hope that his side do not miss his presence at the base of midfield and that he can bring a calming presence to the back in the absence of Nacho and Alaba.