Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena has filed a police complaint after he was allegedly assaulted by Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde after Saturday’s La Liga match.
Baena’s Spain Under-21s were reportedly involved in a heated confrontation with Valverde shortly after the game.
According to the sports newspaper AS, Baena was hit while looking at his phone while walking towards the Villarreal team bus.
Baena played a full role in the La Liga draw at the Santiago Bernabéu and assisted Samuel Chuqueza as Villarreal beat Madrid 3-2.
In a statement released late Sunday night that did not mention Valverde’s name, Villarreal confirmed police involvement and said Baena had the club’s support.
The club stated: “Villarreal player Alex Baena was attacked last night while walking towards the team bus after the match against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
“Faced with this situation, the player decided to file a complaint against the aggressor with the police.
“Once again, Villarreal reject any act of violence and strongly believe in the player’s version of events and will support him throughout this process.”
Official statement: Alex Baena
— Villarreal English (@VillarrealCFen) April 9, 2023
Baena denied reports that he had made rude personal remarks about Valverde ahead of the alleged attack.
The 21-year-old has represented Spain in all age categories since the age of 16 and has made over 50 appearances for Villarreal since his senior debut in July 2020.
Valverde and Los Blancos have yet to comment on the alleged Saturday incident.