Portuguese manager José Mourinho of Real Madrid has received a major boost ahead of his team’s Spanish league campaign, following Frenchman Aurélien Tchouameni’s recovery from an injury that sidelined him during the pre-season preparations.
According to the Spanish radio station “COPE”, Tchouameni is now ready to return to group training and participate against Espanyol in the match scheduled for the evening of Saturday, August 22, at the RCDE Stadium, as part of the second round of La Liga.
Despite his improved condition, the French midfielder will miss the friendly match against Schalke, scheduled for Sunday evening, August 16, in Germany, as the technical staff prefers not to risk him in the final test before official matches begin.
Tchouameni did not participate in any of Real Madrid’s pre-season matches. His return was delayed due to his participation with the French national team in the 2026 World Cup, during which he suffered an adductor muscle injury that kept him out of part of “Les Bleus'” journey.
Upon joining Real Madrid’s training, the player suffered severe thigh muscle strain, prompting the medical staff to place him on an individual rehabilitation program before he received the green light to return against Espanyol.
Tchouameni’s return is of great importance to Mourinho, given his ability to give the midfield more strength and balance, along with his role in ball recovery and providing cover in front of the defensive line—qualities the Portuguese coach missed during most of the pre-season matches.
Real Madrid will officially kick off its season against Espanyol at 9:30 PM Spain time (10:30 PM Cairo time), after their first-round match was postponed due to the participation of a large number of their players in the World Cup.
