Real Madrid’s Camavinga concern deepens as Tchouaméni misses crucial Bayern Munich clash

Real Madrid suffered another setback against Girona, effectively waving goodbye to their LaLiga title hopes and raising fresh questions ahead of Wednesday’s Champions League quarterfinal second leg in Munich against Bayern.

It is a match in which they must overturn a 2-1 first-leg deficit from the Bernabeu. They will also have to do it without Aurélien Tchouaméni, their first-choice defensive midfielder, who is suspended and will miss the game at Allianz Arena.

Most signs point to Eduardo Camavinga stepping into that role, but that decision brings a new concern. If Madrid looked shaky as a team against Girona, Camavinga also struggled individually, continuing what has been his poorest season in a white shirt.

A gradual rise that has stalled

The French midfielder arrived from Rennes in 2021 for just over €30 million, roughly $35 million, at just 18 years old. He was viewed as both a long-term project and an immediate contributor.

Carlo Ancelotti eased him into the squad gradually. Over time, his development was steady and clear. He became calmer in possession and less impulsive on the ball.

His peak came in the 2024 Champions League final in London against Borussia Dortmund, when Tchouaméni was injured and Camavinga delivered a strong performance as a positional midfielder.

A difficult season and growing criticism

This season, however, his performances have declined. Recent weeks have been particularly harsh, with growing scrutiny on his consistency and defensive awareness.

Against Mallorca, Arbeloa referenced the French midfielder when explaining a goal conceded, without naming him directly, pointing to a missed defensive action that led to the goal.

Against Girona, deployed again as a defensive midfielder, Camavinga was slow to react on a key play involving Thomas Lemar. He failed to close down the shot in time, allowing the opportunity to develop.

Mixed numbers, limited impact

On the ball, Camavinga was tidy, completing 58 of 61 passes. But he offered little going forward, with only 18 passes into the final third.

Defensively, his impact was minimal, with just three recoveries recorded. It was another quiet, underwhelming performance in a pattern that has become increasingly familiar.

Inside Real Madrid, those concerns have been noted.

Summer uncertainty growing

Looking ahead to the summer, Camavinga could find himself placed on the transfer list.

He remains only 23 years old and still carries a strong international reputation built during his time in Madrid. If he becomes available, the club expects interest.

Paris Saint-Germain are among those monitoring the situation, with AS previously reporting that the French club intends to keep a close eye on him this summer.

For Camavinga, the timing is critical. With a decisive match in Munich approaching, he is not only playing for a place in the Champions League semifinals, but also for his standing in Madrid’s long-term plans.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that of this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.