Real Madrid have taken disciplinary action against midfield stars Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni following a heated dressing room incident that escalated into a major controversy at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The Spanish giants confirmed both players attended an internal disciplinary hearing on Friday and accepted fines of 500,000 euros each, equivalent to approximately KSh72 million. In an official statement, Real Madrid said the pair expressed regret over the incident and apologised to team-mates, coaches, club officials and supporters.
The club also confirmed that both players had accepted responsibility and were willing to comply with any punishment deemed necessary. Valverde, 27, was taken to hospital after suffering a head injury during the altercation. Initial reports suggested the pair had physically fought, but the Uruguay international denied claims that punches were exchanged.
The midfielder explained on social media that he sustained the injury after accidentally hitting a table during an argument. Doctors later diagnosed Valverde with cranioencephalic trauma, a form of concussion, although he downplayed the severity of the issue by describing it as a small forehead cut that required routine medical attention.
The injury has ruled him out of Sunday's highly anticipated El Clasico clash against FC Barcelona, dealing another setback to a Real Madrid side already battling internal tension and mounting pressure this season. Tchouameni also issued a public apology, describing the situation as unacceptable while accusing online platforms of exaggerating details surrounding the incident.
The France international insisted many of the stories circulating online were inaccurate and urged supporters not to believe every rumour being shared. He acknowledged the club's punishment and admitted the conflict should have been handled more calmly. Tchouameni added that disagreements can happen inside any dressing room but stressed that such behaviour does not reflect the standards expected at Real Madrid, which he described as the most talked-about club in world football.
The 26-year-old further apologised to Madrid supporters and called on the squad to move forward quickly as they focus on the remainder of the season. Despite the controversy, Real Madrid are determined to avoid further disruption ahead of the crucial showdown with Barcelona as they continue their push to return to the top of Spanish and European football. Tags:
