Tchouaméni: I Took a Risk Playing Injured at the World Cup, but Have No Regrets

France midfielder Aurélien Tchouaméni has defended his decision to play through injury at the 2026 World Cup. Despite struggling with a thigh issue, he completed four full matches during the tournament before being sidelined for Real Madrid's opening fixtures of the season.

"In the third or fourth match, or even slightly before that, I was playing through pain. Of course, it is the World Cup, so you give everything to be out there. I took risks I probably wouldn't have taken in any other situation, but I don't regret anything. Players understand that certain moments require you to push through the barrier. I paid the price for it afterwards, but it's part of my journey and I have no regrets. Clearly, in the semi-final against Spain, I wasn't the real Aurélien Tchouaméni. That won't be the first or last time that happens. There are moments in a major tournament where you consult the medical and coaching staff and do whatever it takes to step onto the pitch, and that is exactly what I did," Tchouaméni told France 24.

The midfielder was also unconcerned about new manager Zinedine Zidane's decision to rest him for the upcoming Nations League fixtures, while insisting that a French player should win this year's Ballon d'Or. "Usually, it is around the age of 26 that players truly grasp the game. We have a new coach who is doing a fantastic job, and every ambitious player wants to represent the French national team. It's like everything in life—if you perform, it will follow. The Ballon d'Or? Kylian Mbappé certainly deserves it after an incredible campaign. Ousmane Dembélé was brilliant for Paris Saint-Germain as they retained the Champions League. Michael Olise deserves recognition as well. It definitely needs to go to a French player," the midfielder added.