Cracks in the Real Madrid locker room are growing. This time, reports say even the future of team vice captain and key midfielder Federico Valverde (28) is being shaken.
Madrid Universal, which specializes in Real Madrid news, said on the 23rd (Korean time), "Recently the atmosphere inside Real regarding Valverde has not been normal," and added, "some players are reacting negatively to the idea of playing with him next season."
At the center of the problem is the clash with Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Recently stories have surfaced within the Real squad alleging that Valverde and Tchouaméni even engaged in a physical fight. Claims have been made that it escalated beyond a simple argument to actual punches.
In particular, locally there is a significant view that the incident itself was started by Valverde. Naturally, the locker room's internal public opinion is also shaken.
The outlet explained, "After this incident, some players believe trust in Valverde will not be easily restored."
The atmosphere among the captaincy group is also said to be poor. According to reports, Thibaut Courtois, a key figure in the captaincy group, is also mentioned as one of the players dissatisfied with the current situation.
Valverde has long been the centerpiece of Real's midfield. He has been assessed as a player with enormous work rate and pressing ability, as well as the capacity for build-up play and game orchestration. This season he also played a key role for the team, recording 9 goals and 13 assists in 49 official matches.
Inside Real he was especially prominent enough to be regarded effectively as a future captain. But the ongoing internal clash reports and squad conflicts have completely changed the situation.
Madrid Universal said, "Tactically Valverde is still a very important player," but added, "if locker room balance and relationship problems become serious, a transfer this summer cannot be ruled out."
However, the club has not yet issued an official statement. Ultimately, the key variable will likely be what choice Real makes in this summer's transfer market.
[OSEN]