Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa faced the press on the eve of the Clasico, addressing the shocking altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni that left the Uruguayan hospitalized. The incident, which occurred during training at Valdebebas, has dominated headlines, but Arbeloa sought to refocus the narrative ahead of the crucial La Liga clash against Barcelona.
Arbeloa took full responsibility for the situation, emphasizing that internal matters should stay within the dressing room. He condemned whoever leaked the information to the media, calling it a betrayal of the Real Madrid badge. "What happens in the dressing room should remain there," Arbeloa stated. "Leaking details is disloyal and a betrayal to this shirt." He refused to name the source, saying he does not work for the CIA and that many people are involved with the club.
The manager also defended Kylian Mbappe, who was photographed smiling shortly after the fight. Arbeloa argued that such images are taken out of context, noting Mbappe's sacrifices to join Madrid and his lifelong dream of playing for the club. He stressed that the squad remains respectful and unified under his leadership.
Real Madrid fined both players €500,000 for their conduct, a move Arbeloa praised as swift and transparent. He confirmed that Tchouameni will be in the squad for Saturday's Clasico at Camp Nou, although Valverde's availability remains uncertain due to his hospitalization. Arbeloa expressed confidence in his squad's mentality, stating that two trophy-less seasons have caused tension but that the group is healthy and determined to win again.
Arbeloa recalled a similar incident from his playing days, when a teammate struck another with a golf club, to illustrate that such conflicts, while regrettable, are not unprecedented. He emphasized that the current squad is younger and will learn from these experiences.
With the Clasico potentially handing Barcelona the league title, Arbeloa is fully focused on the match. "All my energy is on the game tomorrow," he said. The manager reiterated his pride in the squad's character and called for unity as Madrid looks to end a difficult season on a high note.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.com - Calcio.
