Former Real Madrid midfielder Claude Makelele believes Aurelien Tchouameni will be one of the most important players in Jose Mourinho’s squad, while also insisting that Kylian Mbappe has been judged unfairly since arriving at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Speaking during an interview with DAZN, the French legend praised Tchouameni’s influence in midfield and argued that his consistency makes him indispensable. 

He also rejected criticism aimed at Mbappe, explaining that the striker is often forced to take on responsibilities that should belong to Real Madrid’s midfielders.

Makelele’s comments come after Tchouameni committed his long-term future to the club by extending his contract until 2031 amid Manchester United interest.

Makelele speaks on Tchouameni’s renewal

Discussing the midfielder’s importance, Makelele left little doubt about how highly he rates his fellow Frenchman.

The former Madrid star described him as exactly the type of footballer successful teams are built around and suggested there should never be any discussion about allowing him to leave.

“He was the only player who performed consistently from start to finish.”

Makelele also backed Mourinho’s squad planning, saying, “Mourinho isn’t a fool; he’s a good manager, one of the best managers. 

“He knows he’s going to need a strong squad to be able to win La Liga.”

Makelele defends Mbappe

The French icon also used the interview to respond to criticism surrounding Kylian Mbappe, arguing that too much responsibility has been placed on the forward.

Addressing the debate directly, Makelele made it clear that he does not share the negative opinions surrounding the striker.

“I don’t agree. A lot of people are criticising Mbappe. He plays for the team, but he’s a striker. A striker always wants to score,” he explained.

Makelele believes the real issue is not Mbappe’s attitude but the lack of a midfielder capable of progressing the ball through central areas.

“At Real Madrid, there isn’t that kind of central midfielder who carries the ball and breaks through the lines. 

“We need a player like that, who can play quick balls to the forwards – to him, to Vinicius and to the players up front.”

Explaining why Mbappe drops deep, he added, “He often drops back into midfield to collect the ball, but who’s going to be up front? 

“When he’s up front, he’s scoring,” he explained.