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Valverde Hospitalized After Clash With Tchouaméni, Misses El Clásico

5/8/2026

Summary

Valverde Hospitalized

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde was hospitalized after a dressing-room clash with Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Valverde slipped, struck his head on a table and required stitches.
Real Madrid announced Valverde will miss 10-14 days and opened disciplinary proceedings against both players.
An emergency meeting with CEO José Ángel Sánchez was held, after which six players refused to speak to coach Alvaro Arbeloa before the El Clásico at Camp Nou.

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Sources report a strained rapport between captain Dani Carvajal and manager Álvaro Arbeloa, which ESPN says has amplified fan anger during trophyless season and dressing-room altercations.

Summary

Valverde Hospitalized

The dispute between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouaméni escalated into a dressing-room scuffle on May 7 following a training incident on May 6.
Coach Álvaro Arbeloa escorted Federico Valverde to a hospital near the Valdebebas training complex, where Marca reported the facial cut was accidental, not caused by a punch from Aurelien Tchouaméni.
Federico Valverde refused to shake Aurelien Tchouaméni’s hand and later fouled Aurelien Tchouaméni during the May 7 training session.

History

Historical Context

When Florentino Pérez became Real Madrid president in 2000, he launched the Galácticos era, signing Luís Figo and paying newcomer Steve McManaman £60,000 a week. The policy forced the sale of key players and created internal power struggles that resurfaced in 2004, when a 3-0 El Clásico defeat triggered a coaching change and renewed squad tension.

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Valverde Hospitalized

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde was hospitalized after a dressing-room clash with Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Valverde slipped, struck his head on a table and required stitches.
Real Madrid announced Valverde will miss 10-14 days and opened disciplinary proceedings against both players.
An emergency meeting with CEO José Ángel Sánchez was held, after which six players refused to speak to coach Alvaro Arbeloa before the El Clásico at Camp Nou.

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