Rebuilding Monaco: Tchouaméni’s Ascendance Amidst Change
AS Monaco experienced a significant transformation after the departure of stars like Kylian Mbappé, Bernardo Silva, Thomas Lemar, and Fabinho. The aftermath of that exodus led the club to fall as low as 17th in Ligue 1 during the 2018-19 season—a stark contrast from their title-winning campaign just two years prior. As Monaco strived to reclaim their former glory, the emergence of Aurélien Tchouaméni offered the team hope, stability, and a renewed competitive edge. Tchouaméni’s performances in midfield have quickly propelled him into the spotlight, making him not only Monaco’s standout performer but also one of the most sought-after talents in Europe.
Aurélien Tchouaméni: Skill Set and Tactical Versatility
Aurélien Tchouaméni’s impact at AS Monaco cannot be overstated. Since his arrival in 2020, he has become indispensable to Philippe Clement’s plans, operating seamlessly as both a defensive midfielder (“number 6”) and a box-to-box presence (“number 8”). His blend of tactical intelligence, physical presence, and technical proficiency sets him apart in the Ligue 1 landscape.
Clement’s preferred 4-2-3-1 system positions Tchouaméni alongside Youssouf Fofana, where the duo rotates defensive and offensive responsibilities. Tchouaméni stands out for his anticipation, leading Ligue 1 with 108 interceptions in 33 appearances—a testament to his reading of the game and positioning. He regularly engages in tackles, averaging 6.62 tackles plus interceptions per 90 minutes, highlighting both his aggressive ball-recovery efforts and capacity to disrupt opposition attacks.
Despite his defensive capabilities, there is room for refinement in his tackling discipline, as reflected by his eight yellow cards and one red during the season. As he matures, clubs will expect improved composure and decision-making to complement his proactive style.
Passing, Creativity, and Technical Flair
While not a deep-lying playmaker in the mold of Thiago Alcântara or Toni Kroos, Tchouaméni is a highly effective and progressive passer. His ability to maintain a short pass completion rate above 90% while completing nearly 80% of his long passes places him among the best in his position in Ligue 1.
Tchouaméni’s confidence on the ball extends to his dribbling, with a 74% success rate on attempted dribbles. He often employs feints and quick footwork to break opposition lines and create space, demonstrating a rarely seen skill set for a defensive-minded midfielder. These attributes, combined with his physical presence and vision, make him comparable to the likes of Declan Rice—a modern midfielder with influence on both sides of the ball.
Positioning, Endurance, and Goal Threat
One of Tchouaméni’s unsung strengths is his ability to read the flow of the match and conserve energy through intelligent positioning. Averaging 87 minutes per appearance across the season, he consistently displays endurance and maintains high performance levels throughout each match. Offensively, his willingness to take up positions on the edge of the box has resulted in memorable long-range goals—such as his brace against Lille—further underlining his all-around capabilities.
In the air, he wins 74% of his aerial duels, making him a key asset during set-pieces and defensive phases. His discipline to hold back during attacking plays allows Monaco to maintain a strong defensive structure even when venturing forward.
Potential Destinations: Evaluating Tchouaméni’s Next Move
With continued development and growing attention from Europe’s elite clubs, speculation is mounting over where Tchouaméni will ply his trade next. The ideal destination would not only maximize his skill set and offer opportunities for regular first-team football but also represent a step forward in his burgeoning career.
Could Manchester United Benefit From Tchouaméni?
Manchester United’s need for a dominant defensive midfielder has been well documented. Erik ten Hag is set to inherit a squad lacking the controlling presence necessary to anchor the midfield. Given Tchouaméni’s comfort operating in a double pivot, as seen alongside Fofana, his arrival could transform United’s midfield dynamic.
With passing proficiency under pressure, sound defensive instincts, and burgeoning leadership qualities, Tchouaméni would bring attributes currently lacking among United’s options like Fred and Scott McTominay. The potential drawbacks, however, include United’s inconsistent track record in integrating young talents and concerns around player management—issues that may influence the Frenchman’s decision.
Liverpool: Securing the Midfield for the Future
Jürgen Klopp’s Liverpool boasts one of Europe’s most hard-working midfields, but the impending departure of aging stars such as James Milner and the advancing years of Jordan Henderson and Thiago Alcântara mean fresh faces are needed. Tchouaméni’s work rate, physicality, and in-possession composure align well with Liverpool’s demands.
He would provide tactical flexibility, capable of thriving in both a double pivot or as part of a midfield three. The main concern in Liverpool’s context is competition—Fabinho, Henderson, Thiago, Harvey Elliott, and Curtis Jones already vie for limited spots, suggesting Tchouaméni could face a rotational role rather than guaranteed starts.
Real Madrid: Building the Next Iconic Midfield
For many young players, donning the white of Real Madrid represents the pinnacle of their careers. Though the Spanish giants are renowned for their world-class midfield comprising Modric, Kroos, and Casemiro, a new generation is slowly emerging.
Tchouaméni could slot alongside Eduardo Camavinga and Federico Valverde in what promises to be a formidable engine room for years to come. However, Madrid’s tradition of sticking with experienced players under managers like Carlo Ancelotti could limit his immediate playing time. The adjustment from Ligue 1 to La Liga’s tempo could work in Tchouaméni’s favor, but the risk of limited minutes is a tangible consideration.
RB Leipzig: An Alternate Pathway to Stardom
An outside-the-box destination, RB Leipzig offers a developmental environment tailored for young talents. The Bundesliga side may face the departure of Konrad Laimer and Amadou Haidara, creating potential vacancies in midfield. With manager Domenico Tedesco often employing a double pivot, Tchouaméni would likely feature as a regular starter, benefiting from competitive football in a league conducive to youth development.
While funding a transfer in the £70 million range could be challenging for Leipzig, a move to Germany represents an opportunity for Tchouaméni to grow as a central figure and avoid the pitfalls of being a rotation player at a bigger club.
Staying Power: The Arguments for Remaining at Monaco
Despite the buzz surrounding his future, staying at Monaco remains a viable option. The club is on the verge of consecutive top-three Ligue 1 finishes and Champions League football, achievements that would retain Tchouaméni at the forefront of European competition. With Philippe Clement structuring the team around his unique skills, Tchouaméni could continue to develop leadership qualities and maintain guaranteed minutes.
With his contract running until 2024, he has the luxury of time to further refine his game before exploring higher-profile moves. Delaying a transfer could allow Monaco to build stability around his talent and potentially recapture the success of the club’s golden era.
Conclusion: Charting the Best Course for Tchouaméni’s Career
Aurélien Tchouaméni stands out as a transformative force in European football, with an ever-growing array of options ahead of him. Each prospective move carries advantages and risks, whether it’s battling for prominence in the Premier League, contributing to a new era at Real Madrid, or growing into a central pillar at RB Leipzig or Monaco.
Ultimately, Tchouaméni’s next step should ensure both his continued development and sustained first-team minutes. While traditional powerhouses offer prestige and silverware opportunities, Leipzig—and even a continued spell at Monaco—may provide the optimal environment for sharpening his abilities and accelerating his rise among world football’s elite midfielders.
