As Real Madrid navigate a turbulent period marked by uncertainty over Carlo Ancelotti’s future and multiple players under scrutiny following their Copa del Rey final defeat to Barcelona, another potential setback has emerged: Aurelien Tchouameni's possible suspension ahead of the El Clásico on 11 May.

Tchouameni, a vital cog in Ancelotti’s defensive framework, has been filling in as an emergency centre-back owing to an ongoing injury crisis.

With Eder Militao, Antonio Rüdiger, and David Alaba all sidelined with respective injuries, the Frenchman is expected to start against Barcelona, likely partnering Raúl Asencio at the heart of the defence.

However, with four yellow cards already to his name, the midfielder is one booking away from serving a one-match suspension.

Real Madrid’s appeal turned down

Real Madrid had appealed Tchouameni’s fourth yellow card, which he received during the fixture against Getafe, but the Competition Commission upheld the referee’s decision. As a result, Tchouameni remains one caution away from missing the highly anticipated El Clásico.

The timing of the situation could hardly be worse for Los Blancos, who are preparing for what could prove to be a decisive clash in the La Liga title race.

Should Tchouameni receive another yellow card during the upcoming match against Celta Vigo on 4 May, he would be ruled out of the showdown with Barcelona – leaving Ancelotti with limited defensive alternatives.

In such a scenario, Ancelotti may be forced to turn to Jesús Vallejo, who has had minimal involvement this season, or perhaps promote a youth player such as Jacobo Ramón to fill the centre-back role.

Neither option provides the level of experience or composure Tchouameni offers, thereby heightening Real Madrid’s concerns.

With El Clásico holding significant weight in determining this season’s league champions, losing Tchouameni would deal a substantial blow to Real Madrid’s hopes of securing a vital result.

The club will now be hoping the 25-year-old avoids any further cautions and remains available to reinforce their already depleted defence against Barcelona.