Chouameni Denies Major Conflict with Valverde, Confirms Focus on Titles

Aurélien Chouameni, the French midfielder for Real Madrid and the national team, addressed recent rumors about a severe conflict between him and his Uruguayan teammate Federico Valverde. He stressed that the media exaggerated the situation and confirmed that their relationship remains normal, with both players fully focused on securing titles for the club.

Speaking to reporters, Chouameni said, "I wanted to clarify some points before moving on to other topics. Yes, something happened and was circulated in the media, but the matter was blown out of proportion because we are players at Real Madrid, which led to excessive discussion about the incident."

He continued by rejecting false narratives circulating about the incident: "I read many incorrect accounts and rumors about a fight and exchanged punches, but none of that ever occurred. I will not go into details since the club was aware of everything that happened. Many things occur inside the dressing room that should not be made public."

Chouameni emphasized that the issue has been fully resolved, stating, "Valverde and I share a common goal of winning titles with Real Madrid. There is no problem between us currently, neither professionally nor personally."

Regarding his participation with the French national team after a disappointing season with Real Madrid, Chouameni explained, "The World Cup is a completely different competition. When we join the national team, we enter a new atmosphere and a different dynamic. Therefore, it is important to separate what happens with clubs from what we experience with the national team."

He expressed strong enthusiasm for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, saying, "We have a strong desire to achieve a great accomplishment. I feel the French team is hungrier and more ambitious compared to the last World Cup. We have an excellent group and mutual trust among all players."

Chouameni also discussed playing in a double pivot midfield role, highlighting the importance of full understanding between midfielders. He said, "You have to adapt to your partner's style on the pitch. When there is harmony in covering spaces, you can advance more freely while maintaining defensive balance."

On the subject of Kylian Mbappé and his leadership role within the French team, Chouameni praised his teammate: "Mbappé is a true leader both on and off the field. He communicates a lot with players during matches and in the dressing room and knows how to connect with everyone. He is a role model for us and performs his leadership duties excellently."

Chouameni concluded by congratulating Paris Saint-Germain players after their Champions League victory: "Of course, we congratulated them. We are happy with what they achieved. It is great for the French national team to have players who have won the biggest European tournament, as this gives the team additional strength and greater confidence."