The Frenchman Aurélien Tchouaméni’s arrival at Real Madrid marked the beginning of a new era for the club’s midfield alongside his French compatriot Eduardo Camavinga. Signed from AS Monaco, the French international quickly established himself as a dominant force in the center of the pitch, bringing a unique blend of physical presence, tactical discipline, and a tireless work rate.
Although he faced a tough start during his initial seasons, he has since improved his overall game. During his time at Monaco and Bordeaux he was known for being a proper number 6 winning tackles, slowing down opposition attacks and ensuring his team do not concede. However in recent seasons he has upped his game from just being a man disrupting attacks to a man creating attacks.
The Frenchman has had a great start to the season, playing 90 mins in every La Liga match so far. Under Xabi Alonso’s new system he has formed a great midfield pivot with Valverde. Especially against Real Oviedo where he had a 93% pass completion rate, delivered 4 accurate long balls and won the most ground & aerial duels in his team.
It is this very progression that Tchouaméni himself has attributed to the time he spent with two of the game’s greatest. In a recent statement, the young midfielder pulled back the curtain on his development, specifically crediting the passing mastery he has learned from his legendary teammates. He would showcase his new mastery in a World Cup Qualifier match for France.
France were 1-0 up but the game was far from over Zabarnyi saw his shot hit the woodwork and Ukraine were close to an equaliser. Then in the 81min, Tchouaméni produced a moment of magic as delivered a sensational assist from inside his own box.
He took a simple touch after a pass from Olise, then delivered a pin point cross to Mbappe who showcased his speed and slotted it in. These two combined to score a brilliant counter attacking goal.
When asked about the precise assist he delivered for Kylian Mbappé during a press conference, Tchouaméni revealed the secret to his newfound creativity. “I have the ability to make those passes,” he stated. “I was trained at the right school with Kroos & Modrić.”
🗣️ Aurélien Tchouaméni: “My assist for Mbappé? I have the ability to make those passes.
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) September 8, 2025
I was trained at the right school with Kroos & Modrić.” 🤍 pic.twitter.com/tZXcJhTumU
Tchouaméni’s words show the profound influence of Kroos and Modrić on the future of Real Madrid’s midfield. Their legacy isn’t just about the trophies they won, it’s also about the vital knowledge they passed down. Toni Kroos is one of the most complete midfielders, his ability to string passes in midfield is second to none. If you were to look at his passing map, the entire pitch would be covered such was his impact to dictate games in midfield. Luka Modric is a magician, he was able to pass to find passes to players no one else could on the pitch.
One of the most notable assists was his Trivela pass to Rodyrgo against Chelsea in the UCL, it was inch perfect and completely changed the complexion of the game with one pass.
His words are a fitting tribute to the mentors who helped him transition from a promising defensive player to a midfielder capable of influencing the game at both ends of the pitch. After the departure of these two legends it is up to the Frenchman to emulate the standards of these two maestros before him.
