Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde is facing a potentially lengthy suspension for allegedly assaulting Villarreal’s Alex Baena.
According to a reports in Spain, Valverde could be suspended for anywhere from four to 12 games for the incident that took place after Madrid’s La Liga clash with Villarreal on April 9th.
Baena has confirmed that he has filed a formal police report against Valverde, and the Spanish football association has also opened a file on the matter. “I have filed a complaint because of the aggression suffered,” said Baena.
The case is slated to be officially opened on April 19th, and both players will be called to testify sometime over the next six weeks.
Valverde allegedly assaulted his Villarreal counterpart after being taunted by Baena about his unborn son. “I have not made any kind of comment to Valverde about his family or anything else,” Baena stated.
Valverde had remained silent on the case until April 13th, when he offered his viewpoint while signing shirts from his car. “Yes, at this time I have leaned on the family, on the people of Madrid and those who support me on the street,” he told El Golazo de Gol.
Despite the ongoing case, Valverde remains a key player for Real Madrid. “He’s an important player for us, and he’s shown that throughout the season,” said Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti. Valverde has made 46 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring 12 goals for Los Blancos