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Thierry Henry has given an insight into Aurelien Tchouameni's relentless winning mentality by delving into talks he held with the Real Madrid star. The Barcelona and Arsenal icon congratulated the France international on his UEFA Champions League triumph with Los Blancos.
Tchouameni wasn't resting on his laurels and allegedly gave an honest response despite winning his first Champions League trophy. Henry said (via Madrid Xtra):
"After the Champions League final I met Tchouaméni and said congratulations, you've won your first one. He told me yeah but some of the guys have won 6 so there’s more work to do."
Tchouameni, 24, sat on the bench for Real Madrid's 2-0 win against Borussia Dortmund in the final (June 1). He missed out on playing due to a foot injury but had played a key role in the La Liga giants' path to Wembley.
That night was the final hurrah for Toni Kroos, 34, as the veteran German midfielder retired from club football. He, Luka Modric, 38, Nacho Fernandez, 34, and Dani Carvajal, 32, won Europe's elite club competition for the sixth time in their careers.
Tchouameni joined Madrid from AS Monaco two years ago for €80million and has been a mainstay in Carlo Ancelotti's side. He added the Champions League winners' medal to a growing trophy cabinet containing the La Liga title and the Copa del Rey.
Real Madrid's Aurelien Tchouameni reportedly could be a full-time centre-back next season
Tchouameni was often tasked with performing at centre-back last season due to an injury crisis that hit Ancelotti's side. David Alaba and Eder Militao were both sidelined with ACL injuries, while Antonio Rudiger wasn't always fit.
The French holding midfielder appeared 10 times in the role, helping Los Blancos keep five clean sheets. He rarely put a foot wrong and might have to get used to the position.
Mundo Deportivo reports that Real Madrid are considering converting Tchouameni into a full-time centre-back. They are exploring their defensive options after missing out on top target Leny Yoro, 18, who joined Manchester United.
Tchouameni spoke about playing centre-back during last season. He joked (via AS):
"My father used to tell me that the midfielders (“6”) are gradually falling back. He laughed a lot. I enjoyed it. I had a pretty good performance, but I am enjoying myself more in the middle. The team might need me in defence."
Real Madrid will also be without Nacho next season as their former captain has left for Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah. This leaves Ancelotti short of another option at the back, and Tchouameni could be the utility man who can replace him.
