Ancelotti Defends Tchouaméni, Cools Down Asensio Amid Defensive Debate
Ahead of Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey Round of 16 clash with Celta Vigo, Carlo Ancelotti addressed growing discussions around young defender Raúl Asensio and midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni, who have been at the center of debates regarding the team’s defensive structure.
Ancelotti on Asensio and Tchouaméni
Despite widespread speculation in the Spanish media that Asensio, who joined the first team just two months ago, would be given more opportunities in the coming weeks, Ancelotti remained firm in his stance.
The 65-year-old coach insisted that, although Asensio has shown promise, he is not yet ready to be relied upon for key defensive roles, particularly as a right-back. “Raúl Asensio is a centre-back, and he’s not used to playing as a full-back. It takes time to adapt him to the right-back role since he’s unfamiliar with it. He has played very well, showing he can compete, but he’s only been with us for two months,” Ancelotti explained.
Asensio’s inclusion in discussions followed Tchouaméni’s underwhelming performance in the 2025 Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona, where Real Madrid lost 5-2.
However, Ancelotti reaffirmed his confidence in Tchouaméni’s defensive contributions, stating, “I remain convinced that Tchouaméni has put in solid performances as a centre-back. The data speaks for itself, even though it’s not his ideal position. Once the emergency is over and Alaba returns, Tchouaméni will return to his role as a pivot.”
Ancelotti’s Stance on Squad Decisions
When pressed further by journalists about his choices, Ancelotti was blunt, making it clear that the press conference was not the place for debates. “I must clarify something. This is a press conference, not a debate. Debates take place between the coaching staff and my players. Having a debate here doesn’t seem to be the right setting,” he said firmly.
The Role of David Alaba and Asensio’s Future
With David Alaba set to return to competition in the coming weeks after recovering from injury, questions linger about his fitness and whether he will slot back into the starting lineup immediately.
Although some had hoped for Asensio to take on a more prominent role in defense, Ancelotti seems to believe that the young centre-back will continue to play a supporting role rather than stepping in as a first-choice starter.
Despite Ancelotti’s approach, many Madridistas remain unconvinced that Asensio, who has impressed in his limited appearances, should not be considered as a legitimate candidate to replace Éder Militão in the lineup.
The uncertainty around Alaba’s fitness only adds fuel to the debate, with fans questioning whether the young Asensio could offer a more reliable defensive solution.
Ancelotti’s Vision and the Road Ahead
Ancelotti, backed by president Florentino Pérez, has shown no signs of wavering in his decisions, even in the face of growing criticism. His approach, despite being criticized for his squad choices, is likely to continue, especially as the club navigates a season of challenges.
Whether Asensio can break into the first team or whether Tchouaméni will remain in defense for the long term remains uncertain, and only time will tell how these decisions impact Real Madrid’s title ambitions.
