Real Madrid Fine Tchouameni and Valverde 500,000 Euros Each After Training Fight

Real Madrid have fined midfielders Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde 500,000 euros each after a physical confrontation during training that resulted in Valverde sustaining a head injury. The club stated the fines conclude its internal investigation and no suspensions will be issued. Both players expressed remorse and apologized to the club, teammates, coaching staff, and fans, the team said in an official statement.

Valverde was taken to a hospital near the club's Valdebebas training complex after the incident, reportedly requiring stitches for a facial cut. He will miss Sunday's Clasico against FC Barcelona and could be sidelined for up to two weeks. Tchouameni, who was not injured, participated in training Friday and remains available for selection.

Valverde downplayed the clash on social media, stating he accidentally hit a table during a heated exchange, causing a minor forehead cut. He emphasized that neither player struck the other. Spanish media reported the dispute began Wednesday and escalated Thursday, including a dressing-room fight after Valverde allegedly refused to shake hands and fouled Tchouameni during training.

The incident comes amid growing pressure at Real Madrid, which trails Barcelona by 11 points in La Liga and faces the prospect of a second consecutive season without a major trophy. Barcelona can clinch the league title Sunday with a draw or win at Camp Nou.

Real Madrid said the internal disciplinary process is now closed. The club has not indicated any further actions beyond the financial penalties.