Aurélien Tchouaméni Cleared to Return for Real Madrid's La Liga Opener

Real Madrid have received a timely lift on the eve of their La Liga campaign, with Aurélien Tchouaméni cleared to return just as the season kicks into gear.

The French midfielder, who had been sidelined by a muscle strain in recent days, has overcome the problem and is expected to be available for the trip to Espanyol on Saturday, according to reports in Spain.

Arancha Rodríguez of Spanish radio station Cope reported on Sunday that Tchouaméni “should be fit” for the opening league fixture, easing fears inside the club after his brief absence from full training.

Tchouaméni rejoined Real Madrid after his World Cup duties with France and initially linked back up with the squad as normal. The muscular issue then flared, forcing him to step away from group sessions and work individually while the medical staff monitored his progress.

The response was positive. His workload gradually increased, and he edged closer to full intensity, convincing the coaching staff he could be reintegrated without undue risk.

The timing matters. Real Madrid face Schalke in Germany on Sunday in their final pre-season friendly, a last dress rehearsal before the serious business begins at Espanyol. Tchouaméni’s recovery gives the midfield a firmer look heading into that opening week.

With the season about to start, Real Madrid now have one less question mark in the heart of the pitch.