Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has been hospitalised following a training ground altercation with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni, escalating tensions at the Santiago Bernabeu. The incident occurred on Thursday, May 7, as the two players clashed for the second time in as many days.
Valverde Hospitalised After Second Fight
The conflict began on Wednesday, May 6, when a foul during a training drill at Valdebebas sparked a heated exchange between the Uruguayan and French midfielders. Despite an emergency meeting aimed at calming the situation, tensions flared again on Thursday when Valverde reportedly refused to shake hands with Tchouameni. The ensuing confrontation left Valverde injured, requiring stitches at a hospital, where he was accompanied by interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa.
Real Madrid have opened disciplinary proceedings against both players and are investigating the incidents, though no punishment has been decided yet, according to Managing Madrid.
Crisis at the Bernabeu
The internal strife comes at a critical time, with Real Madrid trailing Barcelona by 11 points in La Liga. Barcelona need just one point from Sunday's Clasico to clinch the title. Reports suggest at least six players are no longer on speaking terms with Arbeloa. Additionally, Antonio Rudiger allegedly slapped Alvaro Carreras in a dressing-room confrontation, though he later apologised. Kylian Mbappe has also reportedly clashed with a coaching staff member.
Fans Demand Mbappe's Exit
Mbappe has faced criticism after being spotted travelling with actress Ester Exposito while sidelined with an injury. Over 32 million fans have signed a petition calling for his departure, per Sky Sports. Since joining Real Madrid on a free transfer from PSG two summers ago, the club has failed to win a major trophy despite Mbappe's goals.
Mbappe returned to Madrid just minutes before the team's away match against Espanyol, further angering supporters. Meanwhile, PSG have been ordered to pay Mbappe €60 million in unpaid wages and bonuses after losing a legal battle.
