Tchouaméni Returns Just in Time for Real Madrid's La Liga Opener

Real Madrid will start their league campaign with a weight off their shoulders. Aurélien Tchouaméni, briefly a major doubt, is expected to be ready in time for the first whistle of La Liga.

The French midfielder has shaken off the muscle strain that sidelined him from recent training sessions, according to reports in Spain. For a side that leans heavily on his presence and balance in midfield, the timing could hardly be better.

Spanish radio journalist Arancha Rodríguez (Cope) reported on Sunday that Tchouaméni should be fit to face Espanyol next Saturday, when Real Madrid open their Spanish league season away from home. That news will settle a few nerves at Valdebebas.

Tchouaméni had only just rejoined club training after his World Cup duty with France when the muscular issue flared up. It forced him to step away from the main group and work alone, a precaution that raised concern with the league start looming.

The recovery, though, has moved quickly. His condition improved over the past days, and he has edged closer to a full return to regular sessions with the squad.

Before the competitive action begins, Real Madrid still have one final test: a friendly against German side Schalke on Sunday. It is their last rehearsal before the trip to Espanyol, and now, crucially, it may also serve as the moment to confirm that their midfield anchor is truly ready for the long season ahead.