Real Madrid are preparing for Sunday’s massive clash against Barcelona, a match that could officially hand the La Liga title to the Catalan side. But ahead of the clásico, the atmosphere in Madrid has been dominated by off-field controversy involving midfielders Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Reports from Spain claimed the two players were involved in a heated argument during training earlier this week, with some outlets even suggesting the disagreement became physical. Valverde later addressed the situation publicly, denying any fight or aggression between the pair, although he admitted tensions boiled over during the discussion.
The Uruguayan midfielder also explained that he suffered a head injury during the incident and needed medical attention after accidentally hitting his head.
I feel like my anger about the situation and the frustration of seeing some of us reaching the end of the season completely exhausted and losing motivation led me to argue with a teammate. […] During the argument, I accidentally hit my head on a table, which caused a small cut on my forehead and required a visit to the hospital. At no point did my teammate hit me, and I did not attack him either, although I understand that it may be easier for people to believe we had a fight or that it was intentional, but that simply did not happen.
Fede Valverde via Instagram
Despite the controversy, Tchouaméni was seen training normally in the latest session led by manager Álvaro Arbeloa and is still expected to start against Barcelona, although there is still uncertainty over whether the incident could affect team selection.
According to Spanish reports, Real Madrid’s internal rules include strict disciplinary measures for incidents involving players. La Liga has also reportedly been informed about the situation. Catalan newspaper Mundo Deportivo claimed that suspensions of up to 20 matches — and even contract termination in extreme situations — are possible under league and club regulations.
Real Madrid later released an official statement confirming disciplinary proceedings had been opened against both players.
Real Madrid C. F. announces that, following the incidents that occurred this morning during the first team’s training session, it has decided to open disciplinary proceedings against our players Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouameni. The club will provide updates on the resolutions of both proceedings once the corresponding internal procedures have been completed.
Official Real Madrid statement
However, the club ultimately decided on a financial punishment instead of sporting sanctions. On Friday, Real Madrid confirmed that both Valverde and Tchouaméni were fined €500,000 after apologizing for the incident.
Real Madrid C.F. announces that, following the events that led to the opening of disciplinary proceedings yesterday against our players Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni, both appeared today before the investigating officer.
During their appearance, the players expressed their sincere regret for what happened and apologized to each other. They also conveyed their apologies to the club, their teammates, the coaching staff, and the fans, and both offered their full cooperation to Real Madrid, ready to accept whatever sanction the club deems appropriate.
In light of these circumstances, Real Madrid has decided to impose a fine of five hundred thousand euros on each player, thus concluding the corresponding internal procedures
Official Real Madrid statement
The situation adds to the growing tension surrounding the club in recent weeks. Reports all around Spain have suggested there is unrest inside the dressing room, with veteran defender Dani Carvajal reportedly unhappy and midfielder Dani Ceballos believed to have requested a move away. Both players are now being linked with possible exits at the end of the season.
