Real Madrid left a disappointing impression after their heavy 0-4 defeat to Barcelona, highlighting the struggles of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad. This loss in the eleventh round of the league complicated their title challenge, with Barcelona now six points ahead. Ancelotti is under pressure to address the uncertainties surrounding midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni, who has come under scrutiny after the match.
According to “Defensa Central,” while several players are being evaluated, Tchouameni’s situation is particularly precarious, and the board will closely monitor his future performances, which could influence his potential transfer.
Madrid began the match well, creating several chances in the first half. However, after switching to a 4-4-2 formation with Vinicius and Mbappé up front, Tchouameni, who has also played as a central defender due to team defensive issues, struggled. His lackluster display resulted in his substitution and some fan discontent at the Santiago Bernabéu. Although the club does not plan to sell him, his performances in key matches have raised concerns.
Tchouameni, who joined Madrid for around 90 million euros two years ago, is being watched by several Premier League clubs, but he still has time this season to turn things around.
A few days following FC Barcelona’s 4-0 win against Real Madrid, Gavi publicly commented on the Ballon d’Or award.
In that match, marking his return to the first team after nearly a year away, the Spanish midfielder entered the game in the 87th minute, with Barcelona ahead thanks to goals from Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Robert Lewandowski. Gavi substituted for Pedri at the match’s conclusion and quickly engaged in a spirited exchange with Vinicius Junior, reminding him of the score by holding up four fingers. Vinicius responded, “Yes, yes, but on Monday I will pursue the Ballon d’Or.” Although he was nominated for the prestigious award, it was Manchester City’s Rodri who ultimately won. Real Madrid chose to boycott the ceremony, arguing that Vinicius was the true recipient. After the event, Vinicius took to social media, writing in Portuguese, “Eu farei 10x se for preciso. Eles nao estao preparados,” which translates to, “I will do it 10 times if necessary. They are not ready.” Gavi, in turn, congratulated Rodri, saying, “Congratulations, my friend. Well deserved.” Former Real Madrid player Clarence Seedorf also weighed in on the situation, suggesting a potential conflict between Real and UEFA. “I voted for Vinicius almost a year ago and believe he deserved this award,” Seedorf stated to TNT Sports Brasil, adding that “the issues between Real Madrid and UEFA should not influence these types of decisions. It’s a shame.”