Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni has spoken publicly about reports of a disagreement with teammate Federico Valverde, dismissing claims that the pair became involved in a physical confrontation.

The incident, which reportedly took place in May 2026, attracted widespread attention after Valverde was said to have been taken to hospital with a head injury. The controversy prompted Real Madrid to launch disciplinary proceedings involving both midfielders, with reports claiming that each player received a €500,000 fine.

However, Tchouameni has now provided his account of the situation, acknowledging that an unpleasant incident occurred while insisting that reports of a fight between the two players were inaccurate. The French international also maintained that the disagreement has not damaged his relationship with Valverde.

Speaking on The Bridge, in comments reported by AS, Tchouameni rejected suggestions that the pair had engaged in a serious confrontation. He explained that although tensions can arise within a football dressing room, the situation had been portrayed inaccurately in public.

The midfielder indicated that disagreements between teammates are not unusual, particularly in the demanding environment of elite football. However, he believes Real Madrid’s status as one of the most closely followed clubs in the world contributed to the extraordinary attention surrounding the episode.

According to Tchouameni, the intense media interest transformed the incident into a much larger story than it needed to become. The club’s global popularity meant that even reports of internal disagreements attracted considerable scrutiny from supporters and journalists.

He also revealed that the controversy generated numerous phone calls from people concerned about his wellbeing. Tchouameni said he had to reassure those who contacted him that he was doing well, highlighting the personal impact of the widespread speculation.

Despite the attention, the 26-year-old insisted that he and Valverde have put the episode behind them and continue to enjoy a positive relationship. He maintained that anyone observing the pair together at the club’s training facilities would see no evidence of an ongoing dispute.

Tchouameni further suggested that difficult experiences do not necessarily damage relationships between teammates. In some circumstances, he believes such situations can help people understand one another better and ultimately strengthen their connection.

His comments will offer encouragement to Real Madrid supporters, considering the importance of both midfielders to the team. Tchouameni provides defensive protection and physical presence in the middle of the pitch, while Valverde is valued for his energy, versatility and ability to contribute in several positions.

Any prolonged disagreement between two influential players could have raised concerns about the atmosphere within the squad. Tchouameni’s insistence that their relationship remains healthy, however, suggests that the reported tension is no longer affecting their partnership.

Although the French midfielder has firmly denied that he and Valverde fought physically, he has acknowledged that an unpleasant incident took place. His latest remarks seek to draw a distinction between that episode and the more serious allegations circulated afterward.

With both players reportedly on good terms, attention can return to their performances and Real Madrid’s objectives for the season. Nevertheless, the full circumstances surrounding the May incident remain dependent on the available accounts, and Tchouameni’s comments represent his explanation of what happened.