Stats: Aurelien Tchouameni makes instant impact in first Real Madrid start under Mourinho

Stats: Aurelien Tchouameni makes instant impact in first Real Madrid start under Mourinho Aurelien Tchouameni made his first start of the season for Real Madrid in Wednesday’s 3-2 win over Elche , and his return offered Jose Mourinho an early reminder of what the French midfielder can bring to the side. After missing the opening part of the campaign with a pre-season injury, Tchouameni had only managed limited minutes – 11’ vs Inter Milan and 21’ vs Rayo Vallecano – before being trusted from the start at the Estadio Martinez Valero. For what it is worth, he looked comfortable from the outset.  Rather than needing time to settle, the midfielder gave Real Madrid control without the ball right from the beginning, helping organise the press and closing spaces between Elche’s midfield and attack. Tchouameni brings control back to Real Madrid midfield Tchouameni’s numbers show how influential he was defensively. He finished with four recoveries , with only Trent Alexander-Arnold, Marc Cucurella and Arda Guler recording more for Real Madrid on the night. Tchaouameni made his first start of the season for Real Madrid. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images) He also made two interceptions , contributed to two blocked shots and registered six defensive actions . His two tackles showed his willingness to step into challenges, while he was not dribbled past once . Furthermore, his aerial numbers were less impressive. T chouameni contested only one aerial duel and failed to win it .  On the ground, though, he won both of his challenges and repeatedly disrupted Elche’s attempts to play through the middle. That defensive presence became particularly useful when Elche tried to build attacks between the lines. Tchouameni was often there to break up moves before they could develop. Tchouameni also impressed with the ball Notably, the Frenchman’s performance was not limited to defensive work. Tchouameni completed 95% of his passes and produced two key passes . Tchouameni’s statistics vs Elche were fantastic. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images) He was also highly reliable with longer distribution, completing three of his four long passes .  That ability to switch play and move the ball forward without taking unnecessary risks helped Real Madrid maintain their attacking rhythm. The only real concern came late in the game. Real Madrid surrendered a two-goal advantage as their intensity dropped, allowing Elche to level before Carlos Espi restored the lead. Still, Tchouameni’s individual display was encouraging. He lasted until the 85th minute despite having barely played this season, suggesting that he could be ready for the all-important Madrid Derby this weekend.