Real Madrid has initiated formal disciplinary proceedings against midfielders Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni after a physical altercation that took place during a first-team training session. The club confirmed the decision in an official statement released on Thursday evening, signaling a serious response to the incident.
The confrontation reportedly began with a previous clash during Wednesday's training, and the situation escalated significantly on Thursday as the players returned to the changing rooms. The altercation resulted in an injury to Valverde, who sustained a cut to his face that required medical attention and stitches at a hospital.
According to initial reports from the Spanish sports newspaper Marca, which first broke the news, the facial injury to the Uruguayan international was caused accidentally and was not the result of a deliberate punch from his French teammate Tchouaméni. This distinction is important as the club evaluates the circumstances surrounding the fight.
In its brief communiqué, Real Madrid stated that it would communicate the outcomes of these disciplinary cases once the internal procedures have been completed. The club did not provide specific details about the nature of the potential sanctions or the timeline for a final decision.
The timing of this internal conflict is particularly challenging for the Spanish giants, as they are scheduled to face fierce rivals FC Barcelona in the highly anticipated Clasico match on Sunday. The game is set to kick off at 21:00 local time, leaving the club with limited time to manage the fallout and prepare the squad.
The incident raises questions about squad harmony and discipline within the Real Madrid camp at a critical juncture of the season. Both Valverde and Tchouaméni are key players for the team, and their potential absence or diminished focus could have significant implications for the upcoming high-stakes fixture.
The club's decision to open formal procedures indicates they are treating the matter with utmost seriousness, prioritizing team order and professionalism. Further updates on the players' status and any disciplinary measures are expected from the club in the coming days.
Based on reporting from Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continu.
