Real Madrid's Tchouaméni Set to Return Before La Liga Opener

Real Madrid have received a welcome piece of news just days before their La Liga campaign begins: Aurélien Tchouaméni is expected to be ready in time.

The French midfielder has shaken off the muscle strain that sidelined him from recent training sessions, according to reports in Spain. His absence had raised concerns inside the club, with the new season looming and Carlo Ancelotti looking to lock in his midfield structure early.

Spanish journalist Arancha Rodríguez of radio station Cope reported on Sunday that Tchouaméni should be fit for Real Madrid’s trip to Espanyol next Saturday, when Los Blancos open their league season. That projection comes after a gradual, carefully managed return.

Tchouaméni rejoined Real Madrid after his World Cup duties with France, but a muscular issue quickly forced a change of plan. Instead of integrating straight back into full sessions, he was limited to individual work as the medical staff monitored his recovery.

The response has been positive. Step by step, his workload increased, and in recent days he has moved closer to full involvement with the group, easing fears of a longer absence.

Real Madrid face Schalke in Germany on Sunday in their final pre-season friendly. That match will serve as the last tune-up before the competitive action starts away to Espanyol, with the expectation now that Tchouaméni will be available as part of Ancelotti’s options in midfield when the real business begins.