Real Madrid News
Alex Baena issues statement on Federico Valverde incident: “I will let justice do its job”
Taking to Instagram, Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena has issued a statement on the incident that occurred involving him and Real Madrid star Federico Valverde on Saturday.
After the match between Real Madrid and Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu, Valverde went after Baena and punched him in his face in the bus park area.
It was soon reported by the Real Madrid star’s entourage that his actions were forced by alleged distasteful remarks made by Baena over the pregnancy complications that Valverde’s wife had faced earlier this year.
Given the incident had occurred after the game and outside the pitch, the referee did not include it in his official match report.
And while Villarreal did not file a complaint against Valverde, Baena decided to take the step himself and pressed assault charges on the Uruguayan international with the National Police.
Following that, the 21-year-old has now issued a statement, giving his side of the story, and said: “On Saturday I was physically attacked by another player after the match against Madrid. After that, statements allegedly made by his camp came to light, in which it was said that I wished pain to one of his family members. But no evidence has been shared.”
“They took advantage of a tragedy to justify the aggression and there are lies that hurt more than the punches. The damage that my family has been receiving is unjustifiable… I have received threats, insults, and even people wishing death to my family.”
“Yesterday I filed a report with the police. I will let justice do its job. My only goal now is to dedicate myself to football and support my club.”
While Baena filed his complaint with the police, the Anti-Violence Commission has also now been involved in the matter and it could lead to possible sanctions for Valverde.
The Real Madrid midfielder himself has been silent on the matter thus far and it remains to be seen if he decides to speak out now that Baena has issued a statement.
Real Madrid set out on a mission to change the minds of Dani Ceballos, Marco Asensio and Nacho Fernandez earlier this week. After all, all three players were contemplating a departure from the club for a gross lack of minutes.
Los Blancos’ latest approach seems to have impacted Ceballos’ position in a positive fashion. However, Fabrizio Romano reveals that it has not changed Marco Asensio’s mind.
According to the Italian journalist, the Spaniard will leave Real Madrid at the end of the season as a free agent.
Of the numerous options on his table, he sees Aston Villa and PSG to be the best bets. In fact, Villa have already submitted their opening bid for the player as revealed by Fabrizio Romano once again.
After a dramatic final day of action in the Premier League, Aston Villa finished in the European spots and will participate in the UEFA Conference League next season. While a move to the English club would be a steep step down, it will see Asensio receive regular playing time.
Paris-Saint Germain, on that front, appears the more probable destination. The French club are close to losing both Lionel Messi and Neymar Jr ahead of the new season, and Asensio would thus fit in as a starting quality winger. Moreover, they offer Champions League football.
The Spaniard’s role at Real Madrid this season has not been minor by any means considering his contributions. In 30 La Liga appearances, the 27-year-old has scored nine goals and provided six assists in addition to creating nine big chances and averaging 1.4 key passes per game.
However, that does not satisfy the winger who wishes to be a starter week in and week out. His departure in June appears to be now written in stone, and the club should feel hard done to not make a penny of his move.
Many in Los Blancos’ administration see Brahim Diaz as a direct replacement for the Spanish international if he leaves. Needless to say, the AC Milan star’s future will closely depend on Asensio’s situation.
