Antonio Rudiger slaps Alvaro Carreras amid Real Madrid squad tensions
Former Manchester United defender Alvaro Carreras has defended his commitment to Real Madrid following reports of a training ground altercation where he was allegedly slapped by team-mate Antonio Rudiger.
Reports from Spain suggest the German international lost his temper during a heated row with the left-back.
Tensions appear to be mounting within the Los Blancos squad following a series of disruptive behind-the-scenes incidents.
Carreras addresses commitment claims
Rumours surrounding the altercation led to widespread media speculation questioning the young defender’s dedication to the Spanish giants.
The former Old Trafford prospect subsequently released a public statement to dispel the mounting criticism from coaches and external figures.
“My commitment to this club and to the coaches I have worked with has been absolute from day one, and it will continue to be so.”
The full-back insisted he has always worked with the utmost professionalism and respect since returning to the Spanish capital.
“Regarding the incident with a team-mate, it was an isolated matter without importance that has already been resolved.”
It is understood that the former Chelsea centre-back has since apologised for the clash and treated several players and their families to lunch to rebuild squad harmony.
Mbappe involved in separate staff dispute
The training ground friction extends beyond the defensive ranks, with star forward Kylian Mbappe also reportedly embroiled in controversy.
The French World Cup winner is accused of engaging in a furious argument with a member of head coach Alvaro Arbeloa’s backroom staff.
The former Paris St-Germain striker allegedly directed insulting language towards the assistant, who was acting as a referee during an April training session.
The 25-year-old attacker is currently undergoing rehabilitation for a recent injury but has faced additional scrutiny off the pitch.
He was recently photographed on a luxury yacht with his new girlfriend just days before his team-mates are scheduled to face Barcelona in El Clasico.
A statement released to the Associated Press on behalf of the lightning-fast forward emphasised his unwavering daily commitment to the team.
“Part of the criticism is based on an overinterpretation of elements related to a recovery period strictly supervised by the club, without reflecting the reality of Kylian’s commitment.”
Arbeloa refused to be drawn into commenting on the photographs during a recent press conference.