
What began as speculation about tension behind the scenes at Real Madrid has now been confirmed. According to reports from Marca, Antonio Rudiger slapped Alvaro Carreras during a heated exchange following a 1-1 draw with Real Betis, and teammates had to separate them.
Carreras later acknowledged the incident but stated that the issue has been settled. Rudiger reportedly apologized and treated the squad to dinner with their families last Friday.
Days later, captain Federico Valverde ended up in hospital after a training ground altercation with Aurelien Tchouameni. The club responded by imposing fines of €500,000 on each player, the largest in Madrid’s history.
Ogbemi Rewane, producer of the Dante & Ogbe podcast, told DAILY POST that the turmoil was predictable. He argued that the club has allowed player power to go unchecked for too long, reflecting poorly on Florentino Perez’s management. However, he believes this could lead to positive change, as it forces the club to act and some players are open to a fresh approach, especially one that Xabi Alonso might have brought.
These internal conflicts come just before a crucial El Clasico against Barcelona, who lead LaLiga by 11 points with four games remaining. For Madrid, anything less than a victory would effectively hand the title to their rivals.
Rewane expressed skepticism about Madrid’s chances. “I have low expectations for Real Madrid ahead of the upcoming El Clasico,” he said. “The team is in disarray, and even the coach seems to be quietly quitting. But football is unpredictable, so this might be a ruse.”
Alvaro Arboleda is widely expected to be replaced at the end of the season, with Jose Mourinho reportedly set to return to the Santiago Bernabeu from Benfica. Rewane believes Mourinho is the ideal candidate to restore order. “He will bring discipline, dedication, and teamwork,” Rewane added. “He has the personality to control the dressing room and the fans’ support. It also gives him a chance to win the Champions League with Madrid, something he couldn’t achieve in his previous stint.”