Real Madrid has initiated disciplinary proceedings against midfielders Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni following an incident during a first-team training session that left Valverde with a head injury, according to GIVEMESPORT.
The club confirmed Valverde’s diagnosis as a “traumatic brain injury,” sidelining him for a crucial period, including Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona.
In an official statement, Real Madrid CF said: “Real Madrid CF announces that, following the events that took place this morning in the first team training session, it has decided to open disciplinary proceedings against our players Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni. The club will announce the resolutions of both cases in due course, once the corresponding internal procedures have been completed.”
Valverde’s absence a major blow for El Clasico
Valverde, widely regarded as one of Real Madrid’s standout performers, is reportedly recovering at home and has been advised to rest for between 10 and 14 days. His absence means he will miss the highly anticipated clash at Camp Nou, where Barcelona could secure the 2025-26 La Liga title with either a win or a draw.
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The Uruguayan’s injury is a significant setback for Carlo Ancelotti’s side during what has been described as a disappointing season by the club’s standards. Valverde has consistently been one of Madrid’s brightest performers and remains regarded as one of the best midfielders in world football.
Conflicting versions of events
Despite widespread speculation surrounding the training-ground incident, both Valverde and Tchouameni have denied that any physical altercation took place.
Valverde addressed the situation in a statement posted on social media, explaining:
“During the argument, I accidentally hit a table, causing a small cut on my forehead that required a routine visit to the hospital. At no point did my teammate hit me, and I didn’t hit him either.”
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He added:
“I’m sorry. I’m truly sorry because this situation hurts me, this moment we’re going through is painful. Real Madrid is one of the most important things in my life, and I can’t be indifferent to it.”
Meanwhile, screenshots allegedly showing direct messages from Tchouameni’s official Instagram account surfaced on X via user @AQABABE. The messages, reportedly supported by a screen recording to verify their authenticity, also denied reports of a fight.
In the alleged messages, Tchouameni reportedly said:
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“I told you nothing happened yesterday in the sense that there was no fight.”
He also allegedly added:
“I didn’t punch him, it’s not true, that’s all I can tell you.”
Another message reportedly claimed that Valverde’s “head hit the ground.”
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Despite both players insisting no punches were exchanged, Real Madrid’s decision to open disciplinary proceedings highlights the seriousness with which the club is treating the incident and its commitment to following internal procedures.
Sources: www.givemesport.com
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