Real Madrid star used VR footage to prepare for makeshift role against Osasuna | OneFootball

Real Madrid went into the second international break this season with an emphatic 4-0 win over CA Osasuna at the Santiago Bernabeu on Saturday.

Although the likes of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Joselu did an excellent job in attack, coach Carlo Ancelotti had to make several adjustments in defence.

One of those changes saw Real Madrid start with Aurelien Tchouameni as centre-back, in light of Eder Militao and David Alaba’s injuries, coupled with the suspension of Nacho Fernandez.

Tchouameni used VR to prepare against Osasuna

As per a video shared by Tchouameni himself on TikTok (h/t Madrid Zone), the midfielder has shared that he used Virtual Reality (VR) footage to prepare for the game against Osasuna.

In the video, the Frenchman can be seen watching footage of Osasuna’s attacking unit, and the player wearing VR goggles.

Tchouameni’s strategy certainly worked out, as the youngster produced an excellent performance at centre-back against Osasuna.

The midfielder covered the defensive area quite well in the absence of Militao, Alaba and Nacho. His presence allowed Real Madrid to dominate the game throughout the ninety minutes.

A trusted option for Ancelotti?

Aurelien Tchouameni produced an excellent performance against Osasuna (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)

Tchouameni’s performance against Osasuna was a good sign for Carlo Ancelotti, especially considering the current situation in the defensive unit.

With Alaba still yet to return to full fitness and Nacho serving a suspension, Tchouameni’s ability to operate in defensive areas means Ancelotti could potentially use him against the likes of Sevilla or Barcelona later this month.

The manager, however, admitted after the game that the Frenchman does not necessarily enjoy playing as a central defender, saying:

“Tchouameni played very well for the first time as a centre-back. “We have a lot of centre-backs (irony). I make jokes because Tchouaméni doesn’t like to play as a centre-back.”

The Italian, though, will be hoping that he won’t have to, as Real Madrid do require established options in central defence, in order to stand a chance of winning against the defending champions.