Aurelien Tchouameni: The “Octopus” Flourishing on the Mediterranean Coast

A glance at any Monaco game suffices to understand the derivation of midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni’s nickname, “the Octopus”. He is a ubiquitous presence on the field, whose influence has only grown since Philippe Clement’s arrival in the Principality. 

That is not to insinuate to any degree that the French international’s growth had stalled under the tutelage of Niko Kovac, who was unexpectedly relieved of his managerial duties at the turn of the year.

Rather, it is merely to highlight the exponential progress he has made in recent weeks as he has adapted to his new no.6 role with as much ease as an octopus taking to water.

Previously accustomed to a double-pivot partnership, often alongside Youssouf Fofana, but also occasionally young Belgian Eliot Matazo or Jean Lucas, he is now the sole defensive midfielder in Clement’s system.