Tchouaméni returns as Mourinho points him out for 79th

Aurélien Tchouaméni is back on the pitch. The French midfielder, whose return had been delayed by a stubborn injury picked up during the summer, played again on Tuesday as Real Madrid faced Inter in Champions League action, finishing 2-1.

Back in the Champions League

As reported by L’Équipe, Tchouaméni returned after having to postpone his comeback because of that “tenacious” summer issue. From the bench, Mourinho’s staff were clearly watching the players warming up near the corner flag, ready to act at the next window.

Mourinho’s call at 79’

In the paper’s account, one of Mourinho’s assistants was constantly gesturing toward Tchouaméni with big movements directed at the three substitutes warming up. The midfielder, seen doing quick bursts and short sprints, didn’t hear the shouts—but he noticed the signals. “Moi ?” (Me?), he asked.

L’Équipe then details what happened next: the man Mourinho wanted to use was Tchouaméni, scheduled to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold in the 79th minute of the match. So beyond the scoreline, the timing of the intended substitution and the bench’s focus suggest that—at least for now—Tchouaméni is ready to kick off his season, as the story puts it.

With his return, Real Madrid adds depth and midfield balance for the stretch that comes after this Champions League test.