“In my reports, I always put the same thing” - Ex-Barcelona scout highlights ‘flaw’ in Aurelien Tchouameni as reason why they didn’t sign him
Former Barcelona scout Bojan Krkic Sr has spoken about the reason why the club did not sign midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni. The 24-year-old began his career in France, breaking through the first team at Girondins de Bordeaux. In 2020, he opted for a switch to Monaco, finally joining Real Madrid for an €80 million fee in June 2022.
While he was still in Monaco, Barcelona apparently had their sights on him. However, they eventually decided against making their move, due to scouting reports from Krkic Sr, the father of former Barca forward Bojan Krkic Jr.
While the scout admitted that the young Tchouameni had impressive physical qualities that made him a remarkable midfielder, there was a single, but major flaw. Krkic Sr said (via Barca Universal):
“In my reports, I always put the same thing: he has power, strength, aggressiveness in marking, even excessive, but creativity; little. He was not for a big club. I didn’t like him."
While he determined that the midfielder was not suited for Barca's style of play, due to his lacking creativity, Real Madrid seem to have had no issue in this regard. He has gone on to impress with Los Blancos, winning seven trophies since he joined the Spanish giants, including the UEFA Champions League. He has also impressed with the France national team, winning the UEFA Nations League.
Former Barcelona coach praises Hansi Flick for Marc Casado's rise
Former Barcelona coach Rafa Marquez has praised club manager Hansi Flick for integrating Marc Casado into the first team efficiently. The young midfielder has been rather instrumental to the club's impressive run of form this season, and Marquez believes Flick should take credit for this.
Speaking about Casado's brilliance on TV show Que Thi Jugues, Marques said (via Barca Universal):
“I’m very happy for him. I’ve seen how he’s progressed through stages and processes, and I hope he maintains this level. He has a very winning and competitive mentality. That’s what earned him this opportunity. Flick saw it and immediately decided to keep him, so credit goes to him."
This season, Marc Casado has played 15 games in La Liga and the Champions League, making five assists from his defensive midfield position. Barcelona are currently first place on the La Liga table, and they look like strong contenders to win the Champions League this season.
Casado will hope he can continue to impress, having recently made his first two caps for the Spain national team.
