
Predrag Mijatović (foto: Posnetek zaslona)
Former Real Madrid sporting director Predrag Mijatović calls for urgent reinforcements and raises doubts about Aurélien Tchouaméni’s suitability for the club.
Predrag Mijatović, former Real Madrid player and sporting director, didn’t hold back during an appearance on the popular Spanish radio show El Larguero. Offering his take on the club’s current state, Mijatović shared a series of suggestions aimed at improving the team’s performance, including urgent reinforcements and a frank evaluation of certain players.
Mijatović, who now serves as the sporting director of Partizan Belgrade, highlighted the pressing need to strengthen Real Madrid’s full-back positions. He explained, "I would strengthen the left and right flanks. We have to find solutions. Real Madrid have had great full-backs for decades. We can't forget Roberto Carlos, Panucci, Carvajal, Marcelo... Real have always had players who made the difference in those positions."
In addition to defensive concerns, Mijatović stressed the importance of finding a new creative force in midfield to eventually succeed veterans Toni Kroos and Luka Modrić. He acknowledged the challenge of replacing such iconic players but remains optimistic about discovering suitable talent. "We are used to having Kroos and Modrić in the middle, so now we have to start looking for a new creative midfielder. It will be difficult to find another Kroos or Modrić, but there are players who have that kind of potential," he added.
One of Mijatović’s boldest remarks came when he singled out Aurélien Tchouaméni for criticism. Despite high expectations following his impressive performances with the French national team, Mijatović believes Tchouaméni has failed to meet the demands of a club like Real Madrid. He stated, "Let's say bobu bobu – Tchouaméni doesn't convince in any position, neither as a central defender nor as a midfielder. He is a player who came to the club with certain expectations because he played well in the French national team. Real Madrid is too high a level for him. In the end, we don't have a player in any position that covers him. One is a midfielder, the other is a 'stopper'."
Mijatović also addressed the coaching situation, advocating for stability until the end of the season but urging caution when considering Xabi Alonso as a future head coach. While he expressed admiration for Alonso, he pointed out the unique pressures of managing a club like Real Madrid. "I would give Ancelotti free rein until the end of the season and then make a decision regardless of the result. Even if he wins La Liga and the Champions League. I like Alonso a lot, but you have to know that Real Madrid is something completely different – even if you know him as a player."
As Real Madrid continues to compete on multiple fronts this season, Mijatović’s candid remarks are sure to spark debate among fans and analysts alike.