Mourinho carefully manages Tchouameni’s return ahead of Atletico derby

Jose Mourinho is gradually increasing Aurelien Tchouameni’s involvement as the Real Madrid midfielder continues his return from a lengthy injury absence.

Tchouameni played 11 minutes against Inter Milan in the Champions League a week ago before appearing for 21 minutes against Rayo Vallecano three days ago.

Spanish newspaper AS reports that the France international is not expected to start against Elche on Tuesday, but should play for more than half an hour.

“He will get more minutes, without a doubt,” Mourinho said at his pre-match news conference. “He is improving constantly, becoming stronger and more confident. He will definitely play, but I will not say how many minutes.”

The Real Madrid coaching staff are particularly keen to assess the discipline and control Tchouameni brings to his performances. His ability to strengthen the team defensively around the edge of the penalty area is regarded as an important asset in an area considered one of Real Madrid’s weaknesses.

Tchouameni is continuing to follow a carefully structured rehabilitation plan, with his workload being increased slowly but steadily. The main priority is to avoid a setback and ensure he returns to full fitness only when he has completely recovered.

According to AS, the midfielder has spent long periods in the gym and attending physiotherapy sessions, as well as completing individual training on pitch three at the club’s training complex.

That work has been carried out with considerable caution. Tchouameni has not felt any pain for several weeks, but he remains concerned about his recovery and is trying to stay calm.

His playing time is being monitored continuously and increased in stages because of the complexity of the injury he suffered. He first felt pain in his thigh 73 days ago, before the World Cup last-16 match against Paraguay.

Tchouameni then risked playing against Spain in the semi-final several weeks later, but ultimately left the tournament injured. He spent his holiday attending physiotherapy sessions and missed the beginning of the Spanish league season.

AS says Tchouameni now has a strong chance of starting the Madrid derby against Atletico Madrid at Wanda Metropolitano next Sunday.