Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid confirmed Aurelien Tchouameni sustained a thigh injury following their defeat to Liverpool at Anfield
- Tchouameni is expected to be absent for approximately three weeks, missing away fixtures versus Rayo Vallecano, Elche, and Olympiakos
- Fede Valverde, who experienced muscle discomfort at Liverpool, is expected to be fit to face Rayo Vallecano on Sunday
Midfield Absence as Madrid Seek Solutions
Real Madrid are dealing with the repercussions of their defeat at Anfield, as the loss was compounded by news that key midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni will be unavailable for several weeks due to a thigh injury. The French international, a mainstay in Xabi Alonso’s side this season, has been instrumental in shielding the defence. With his absence, the Basque tactician is now tasked with identifying suitable alternatives in a pivotal area of the pitch.
🚨 Aurelien Tchouameni will be out until beginning of December with semitendinosus muscle injury in his left leg. pic.twitter.com/6scFbeRN3F
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) November 6, 2025
Injury Details and Expected Return
The club released an official statement confirming Tchouameni’s thigh issue following their visit to England. Diario AS has reported that he is expected to be out of action for roughly three weeks. Should his recovery go as planned, Tchouameni is likely to be fit again in time for Real Madrid’s clash against Girona at Montilivi on 30th November. His spell on the sidelines coincides with the international break, minimising the number of matches he stands to miss.
Upcoming Matches Without Tchouameni
During Tchouameni’s absence, Real Madrid will be without his services for the next three away fixtures: against Rayo Vallecano, Elche, and Olympiakos in the Champions League. Provided he returns on schedule, he will be available for selection when Los Blancos travel to Girona and later visit Athletic Club at San Mames.
Valverde Cleared to Feature, Alonso’s Options Assessed
In contrast to Tchouameni’s setback, Fede Valverde has avoided a spell on the sidelines. Despite coming off with muscle discomfort against Liverpool, he is expected to feature against Rayo Vallecano at Vallecas on Sunday, a traditionally difficult fixture for Madrid.
Alonso does have options to cover Tchouameni’s crucial holding role. Eduardo Camavinga, his French teammate, may be deployed in his preferred midfield position, or Valverde could step into the defensive midfield berth. Should Valverde be required further forward, this would likely open an opportunity for Trent Alexander-Arnold to make his first start since recovering from his own injury, on Sunday.
