Real Madrid midfield leader at risk of suspension heading into Betis clash

5 days ago 2

As Real Madrid prepare to open their 2026 campaign against Real Betis, much of the attention will naturally fall on how Xabi Alonso manages without Kylian Mbappe.

The French forward’s absence already represents a major challenge, but it is not the only issue on Alonso’s mind.

So far this season, Mbappe has missed just one match, the UEFA Champions League clash against Manchester City, and that encounter ended in defeat for Real Madrid.

His importance to the team’s attacking balance is clear, making the Betis fixture an early test of Madrid’s depth and adaptability.

Tchouameni in danger

However, beyond the attacking concerns, there is a growing disciplinary issue that could have serious consequences in the coming weeks, as Aurelien Tchouameni enters the Betis match walking a suspension tightrope.

The French midfielder has already accumulated four yellow cards in La Liga this season, picked up against Espanyol, Villarreal, Getafe and Valencia.

One more booking would result in an automatic one-match suspension, ruling him out of the next league game against Levante.

Aurelien Tchouameni is at risk of suspension. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

For Alonso, that is a scenario he would desperately like to avoid. Tchouameni has been one of the pillars of Madrid’s midfield this season, offering defensive stability, positional discipline and surprising creativity.

His absence would leave a significant hole in the centre of the pitch, especially at a time when consistency is vital.

The numbers underline his importance. Tchouameni has already featured in 23 matches across all competitions, clocking more than 1,800 minutes.

He has contributed a goal and five assists, but his true value lies in his ability to shield the defence and control the tempo of games.

Adding to Madrid’s concerns is the wider disciplinary picture, as five other players in the squad currently sit on three yellow cards in La Liga and are just two bookings away from suspension.

That list includes Dean Huijsen, Alvaro Carreras, Vinicius Jr., Rodrygo, and Franco Mastantuono.

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