Tchouaméni downplays Valverde altercation, denies physical contact

Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouaméni has spoken out about an alleged altercation with teammate Fede Valverde, which he claims was amplified by media reports. Speaking at a press conference while with the French national team, Tchouaméni acknowledged an incident occurred but stated it "took on even greater proportions" due to its emergence in the press.

He specifically refuted claims that he physically struck Valverde, calling such reports "absolutely not the case." While not delving into specifics, Tchouaméni assured that the club was informed of the situation and that the matter has been resolved. "After that, we turned the page," he said.

Tchouaméni stressed that any personal issues do not impact the team's collective ambition. "With 'Fede' we have a common goal, which is to win titles for Real Madrid," he stated. He also addressed the prospect of facing Uruguay, Valverde's national team, during the World Cup, asserting that while both sides will be competitive, there are "no problems" on a personal level.