Aurélien Tchouaméni: “Choosing the NBA over Real Madrid was a mistake”

Aurélien Tchouaméni was up in front of the microphone alongside Carlo Ancelotti in the pre-match press conference ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup final between Real Madrid and Al Hilal. The French midfielder took advantage of the situation to apologise for his trip to Paris to watch an NBA game while Real Madrid was playing against Villarreal in the Copa del Rey. “The truth is that I knew that Real Madrid is the best club in the world, the demands and pressure are incredibly high. Going to Paris was a mistake on my part, but I am young, I won’t do that again next time,” he acknowledged.

Tchouaméni: We are right behind Vinícius

Tchouaméni was also asked to comment on a number of other issues.

Racism in football: “Yes, it’s a general problem in society. There has to be zero tolerance, whether you’re black, white, red or whatever else. We have to take radical measures, do as much as possible. Let’s also hope that the league takes action.”

Vinícius: “Vinícius is fine. We know that in football there are difficult moments, whether it’s against opponents, fans... We are right behind him. The important thing is that he focuses on his football and shows his incredible ability.”

Playing as a single pivot: “With Monaco and with France I used to play as a double pivot, yes, but in modern soccer you have to be able to play as a single pivot, which I did at the World Cup. Tactically it changes things, but I can do it. It makes no difference to me to play as a double or single pivot.”

Winning with Real Madrid: “Being a world champion with Madrid would be a dream.”

His own form: “I want to play well to help the club win more trophies.”