News Focus
- Arbeloa defends Valverde and Tchouameni following their post-training clash on Thursday
- The manager labels the media leak a ‘betrayal’ and act of disloyalty to the club
- Incident follows other recent disclosures involving Carreras, Rudiger and Mbappe
- Boss refuses to speculate on the source, stating he does not work for the intelligence services
Real Madrid boss Alvaro Arbeloa has defended players Fede Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni following their altercation at the training ground on Thursday. However, he has launched a fierce attack on the individual who disclosed details of the bust-up to the media.
The clash occurred after a routine session, leaving Valverde with a minor cut. Arbeloa insists he bears no grudge towards either midfielder regarding the physical exchange. Instead, his anger is reserved entirely for the unidentified source who shared confidential information with the press.
Speaking to journalists, the coach branded the disclosure as the most hurtful aspect of the entire affair. He recalled witnessing similar incidents during his playing career, including one episode involving a golf club, but stressed that private matters must remain within the Santiago Bernabeu dressing room.
“This constitutes both betrayal and disloyalty toward our badge,” Arbeloa stated. He admitted he possesses no evidence regarding the leaker’s identity and ruled out conducting a formal investigation. The Spaniard remarked that he is not an intelligence agent and will not accuse his squad members.
The controversy emerges amid a worrying pattern of internal leaks at the Spanish giants. Recent weeks have seen reports of friction between Alvaro Carreras and Antonio Rudiger, alongside speculation concerning Kylian Mbappe’s happiness at the club. These headlines suggest someone with insider access is routinely speaking to the media.
Arbeloa confirmed that both Valverde and Tchouameni have apologised for their conduct. He praised their professional approach to resolving the matter and urged the squad to concentrate on upcoming fixtures. The manager maintained that his relationship with the players will remain private, insisting the group must set a positive example despite the recent distractions.