Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa has defended players Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni after their physical altercation during practice, stating their apologies were sufficient following the incident that resulted in both being fined 500,000 euros ($590,000).
"My players recognized their mistake, expressed their remorse and asked for forgiveness," Arbeloa told reporters in Madrid on Saturday. "That is enough for me. What I am not going to do is burn them on a pyre in a town square, because they don't deserve that. It is time to turn the page."
The Incident
The scuffle between the two midfielders occurred during Thursday's training session, ending with Valverde requiring hospital treatment for a head wound. He stated he hit his head on a table, describing the altercation as "a meaningless fight."
Both players apologized to each other the following day when meeting with club officials investigating the incident. They also apologized to their teammates, coaching staff and fans.
Arbitration noted the breach of team discipline was serious enough to impose significant financial penalties, noting "situations like this have always happened" but refusing to justify the actions.
Criticism of Media Leak
Arbeloa's harshest words were directed at whoever leaked the information to Spanish sports daily Marca, which first reported the fight.
"What happens in the changing room ends up being filtered to the media is a betrayal of Real Madrid. These things must stay in the changing room," he said.
Critical Clásico Awaits
With Madrid facing a second consecutive season without a major trophy despite having France star Kylian Mbappé, Arbeloa now must rally his team for a crucial match at fierce rival Barcelona on Sunday.
Only a Madrid win can prevent Barcelona from clinching a second consecutive La Liga title. The Catalan club holds an 11-point lead over Madrid with four games remaining.
"There is no doubt I have to take responsibility for the fact that we have not risen to the challenge this season," Arbeloa said. "Feelings of frustration and anger can push you into situations that you don't desire. But now we must focus on Sunday's game."
Tchouaméni will be available for the Clásico, while Valverde remains on medical leave recovering from his head injury.