Aurelien Tchouameni in trouble after altercation with Valverde at Real Madrid.

The controversy at Real Madrid involving Aurelien Tchouameni is generating significant discussion, and the future of the French midfielder seems more uncertain than ever. Following a violent altercation in training with Federico Valverde, which resulted in the Uruguayan being hospitalized, many are speculating about Tchouameni’s departure from the Bernabéu, especially with Manchester United eyeing him as a potential reinforcement. But is the situation as dramatic as it appears? Football legends and transfer market experts have already given their verdict, and the truth may surprise fans of the Red Devils.

Confusion erupted at the training center of Real Madrid in Valdebebas at a critical time in the season, just days before the superclásico against Barcelona — a match that could crown the Catalans as champions. Tchouameni and Valverde were involved in a confrontation that quickly escalated from words to physical altercation, with Valverde refusing to shake hands with his teammate, resulting in a cut on his forehead after accidentally hitting a table, according to the player himself. The club responded by opening disciplinary proceedings against both players in an attempt to control the internal crisis.

In recent months, both Tchouameni and Valverde have been the subject of rumors regarding moves to the Premier League, but the numbers and information gathered indicate that Real Madrid is much more inclined to negotiate the departure of the Frenchman than that of the Uruguayan. This scenario has placed Manchester United in a strategic position as they seek a suitable replacement for Casemiro, who is leaving. The Red Devils believe that this tense situation could accelerate the departure of the French midfielder.

However, Ruud Gullit, former Dutch forward and iconic figure in world football, came to cool down the situation and put the incident into perspective. In statements to Metro through MrRaffle.com, Gullit categorically stated that scenes like this are normal in top-level football: “This is normal. In my time, there was something happening every week. I don’t care much, it’s part of the game and necessary to release frustration.” The former star also emphasized that, in a squad, it is not mandatory to like each other, but respect for each player’s worth must exist, as everyone is a key piece in the collective success.

Gullit was even more incisive when addressing the possibility of Tchouameni leaving Real Madrid: “Real Madrid is the biggest club in the world. No one turns down Real Madrid. No one. The only reason to leave is if they tell you they’re going to sign another player and that you’re not part of the plans. But you don’t leave Real just because you want to go somewhere else. That doesn’t happen.”

This viewpoint is supported by transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano, who is also surprised by the idea that the feud could lead to an immediate departure of the French player. The sale of Tchouameni may be contingent upon the signing of Rodri, a player from Manchester City, by Real Madrid, which could create space in the midfield. Meanwhile, Manchester United continues to monitor the situation, with Carlos Baleba emerging as a more likely alternative to strengthen the Red Devils’ midfield than Elliot Anderson or Adam Wharton.

In summary, despite the tense atmosphere and market speculations, the future of Aurelien Tchouameni at Real Madrid seems far from resolved. The behind-the-scenes war may just be another chapter in the life of a club where conflict and competitiveness are ingredients for success. Manchester United will have to wait for concrete developments, as convincing a star of the Frenchman’s caliber to leave the Spanish giant will not be easy—unless the club itself gives the green light for a change of direction. Until then, the saga continues, and the eyes of European football are focused on what could be one of the most explosive transfers of the summer.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.