Real Madrid are in disarray ahead of Sunday's El Clásico against Barcelona, with reports of a physical altercation between midfielders Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni. The club confirmed an incident in training on Thursday, stating Valverde suffered head trauma. It has emerged that Valverde required stitches after a second confrontation in two days, triggered by accusations that Tchouaméni leaked details of an earlier row to the media.
The toxic atmosphere at the Bernabéu comes amid a trophyless season, a failed rebuild under Xabi Alonso, and the likely prospect of handing the La Liga title to Barcelona. Interim manager Álvaro Arbeloa has lost seven of his 24 matches, and speculation about dressing-room unrest has been mounting for months. Kylian Mbappé, despite scoring 41 goals in 41 games, faced criticism for a romantic getaway and a reported bust-up with a coach. An online petition calling for his departure attracted 32 million signatures.
Defender Antonio Rüdiger has also been involved in a training-ground row, while Vinícius Júnior has been booed by home fans. With Carlo Ancelotti poised to extend his contract with Brazil, bookmakers suggest Florentino Pérez may turn to José Mourinho to restore order. Mourinho, known for his combative style, previously defended a player banned for abusing Vinícius and once poked Barcelona's Tito Vilanova in the eye.
Meanwhile, Bournemouth have dropped Álex Jiménez amid an investigation into social media posts allegedly involving inappropriate exchanges with a minor. The club stated, 'The club understand the seriousness of the matter and it is currently being investigated. As a result, Álex will not be included in the squad for tomorrow’s Premier League game against Fulham.'
