Real Madrid double down on 26-year-old star as future captain material | OneFootball

The fallout from the explosive dressing room clash between Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde continues to create tension at Real Madrid.

However, while both players were officially punished after the incident, the club’s position on the two midfielders appears to be very different heading into next season.

According to fresh reports from Ok Diario, it appears that Real Madrid are backing Tchouameni as one of the club’s future leaders despite the controversy surrounding the altercation. 

As per the outlet, the French midfielder is still viewed as untouchable within the project, while uncertainty continues to grow around Valverde’s future.

Simply put, Real Madrid have no intention of listening to offers for Tchouameni this summer unless incoming manager Jose Mourinho specifically requests changes after taking charge.

Real Madrid pick a side

The dressing room altercation between the two midfielders escalated dramatically earlier this season. 

Real Madrid have complete faith in Tchouameni. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)

During the confrontation, Valverde suffered stitches and required hospital treatment after hitting his head on a table during the chaos.

According to the report, Real Madrid acknowledge that Tchouameni reacted too aggressively during the incident. 

However, there is also a feeling within the club that Valverde’s actions contributed heavily to escalating the confrontation beyond control.

That interpretation appears to have influenced how both situations are now being handled.

While offers for Valverde are expected to be considered during the summer transfer window, the same does not currently apply to Tchouameni. 

Real Madrid will not sell Tchouameni. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

In fact, the French international is still seen as a central figure for the future of the squad and despite recent events damaging his public image temporarily, Real Madrid are convinced he can eventually become one of the dominant voices inside the dressing room.

Important player for Real Madrid

Over the last two seasons, Tchouameni has evolved into one of the most important players in the squad. 

Even during difficult moments, the club has continued to protect him because they believe his profile fits the long-term direction of the team.

Valverde, meanwhile, now appears to be facing a far more uncertain situation despite previously being viewed as one of the emotional leaders of the dressing room. 

In this sense, Mourinho’s arrival would be key to everything, as the Portuguese manager is expected to make several strong decisions, and his opinion on both midfielders would be decisive.