Alex Baena, a midfielder for Villarreal, has reported Federico Valverde to the police for allegedly assaulting him after the LaLiga game on Saturday.
Baena, a player for Spain’s Under-21 team, reportedly got into a furious argument with Valverde soon after the game.
Baena reportedly received a punch while walking to the Villarreal squad bus and was distracted by his phone, according to the sports publication AS.
Baena contributed actively to the LaLiga match at the Santiago Bernabeu, helping Villarreal defeat Madrid 3-2 with a late goal from Samuel Chukwueze.
In a statement issued late on Sunday, in which Valverde was not referenced by name, Villarreal confirmed the police involvement and said Baena have the club’s support.
The club said: “Villarreal CF player Alex Baena was assaulted last night while on his way to the team bus after the match against Real Madrid CF at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium.
“Faced with this situation, the player has decided to file a complaint against the aggressor with the police.
Official statement: Álex Baena
— Villarreal CF English (@VillarrealCFen) April 9, 2023
“Once again, Villarreal CF rejects any act of violence and firmly believes in the player’s version of events and will support him throughout this process.”
Baena has denied reports he made crude personal remarks about Valverde before the alleged attack.
The 21-year-old has represented Spain at every age-grade level from under-16 and has made over 50 appearances for Villarreal since making his senior debut in July 2020.
Valverde and Los Blancos have yet to comment on Saturday’s alleged incident.