Real Madrid have been thrown into turmoil ahead of their crucial El Clasico showdown against FC Barcelona after a heated training ground altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni resulted in Valverde being taken to hospital.

The incident reportedly began during Wednesday’s training session and escalated again on Thursday as tensions inside the Madrid camp reached breaking point following a disappointing season. Valverde suffered what the club described as a “cranioencephalic trauma” and was ruled out for up to two weeks before later being discharged from hospital.

Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has reportedly launched an internal investigation, with disciplinary proceedings officially opened against both players.

In an emotional public statement, Valverde denied reports of a fistfight and claimed the injury happened accidentally after he struck a table during a disagreement.

The midfielder admitted frustration had built up inside the squad following Real Madrid’s difficult campaign, including their Champions League exit and falling behind Barcelona in the LaLiga title race.

Meanwhile, pressure around Kylian Mbappe continues to intensify, with reports claiming millions of fans have signed a petition demanding the forward’s departure amid growing unrest at the club.

The shocking developments come just days before Real Madrid face Barcelona in a potentially title-deciding El Clasico, with Barcelona needing only one point to secure the LaLiga crown.