The wave of momentum surrounding Real Madrid took an unexpected hit after their defeat at Anfield. The club confirmed that Aurélien Tchouaméni has sustained an injury to the semitendinosus muscle in his left leg — a setback that will keep him sidelined for approximately three weeks. The announcement lands at a difficult time for Xabi Alonso’s side, especially considering how indispensable the French midfielder has become.

According to the medical report released on Thursday, the diagnosis points to a classic overload-related muscular injury. Interestingly, there were no signs of discomfort during the 90 minutes Tchouaméni played against Liverpool, which makes the timing even more surprising.

A Blow That Disrupts Madrid’s Tactical Balance

Tchouaméni’s importance in this Madrid is undeniable. His role as the pivot, stationed just ahead of the defense, has been one of the fundamental pieces behind the team’s defensive stability since Xabi Alonso took charge.
He is the player who holds Madrid together when the team stretches forward, who restores balance with his long recoveries, and who ensures clean progression in a system that demands clarity in the first phase of buildup.

The Frenchman had already been substituted at halftime in the previous match against Valencia, but that decision was merely tactical — he was carrying a yellow card that limited his aggression, not any physical concern. Everything pointed to normal squad management until the post-Anfield developments changed the picture.

Sources inside the club indicate that Tchouaméni ended the match at Anfield with mild soreness, nothing alarming at first glance. However, the discomfort persisted the next morning, prompting further tests that ultimately confirmed the muscular injury.

Xabi Alonso Loses a Key Starter

Tchouaméni’s absence represents a significant setback for Xabi Alonso, who had used him in all 15 official matches Madrid have played this season. His consistency, physical presence, and defensive reading have been essential to a team that has conceded very few goals so far.

With an estimated three-week recovery period, the midfielder will miss several key fixtures in both LaLiga and the Champions League. This forces Alonso to modify the midfield structure and redistribute responsibilities among options such as Fede Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Toni Kroos.

Some Relief for Madrid

Not everything in the medical update was negative. Tests showed no injury for Fede Valverde, who also finished the demanding night at Anfield with heavy legs.
The Uruguayan will be available for Sunday’s match against Rayo Vallecano in Vallecas — a crucial piece of good news for a Madrid side that cannot afford further absences during this congested stretch of the season.