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Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde could be banned for up to 12 matches for allegedly punching Villarreal midfielder Alex Baena.
Real Madrid's Federico Valverde and Villarreal's Alex Baena clashed moments after Villarreal had earned a dramatic 3-2 win against Real at the Bernabeu.
Real Madrid's Valverde facing lengthy suspension
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Valverde confronted Baena in the area where the team buses park up at the stadium and allegedly threw a punch at him.
The Villarreal star was later seen with a bruised and swollen cheekbone. Baena is alleged to have made derogatory comments to Valverde about his unborn baby, something he has vehemently denied.
After the incident, Baena, 21, wrote on his Instagram:
"Very happy with the impressive victory of the team on a stage like the Santiago Bernabeu but at the same time very sad for the aggression I suffered after the match and surprised by what is being said about me. It is totally untrue that I said that."
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According to The Athletic, an investigation into the incident will begin on Wednesday by the Spanish FA's competition committee (an independent disciplinary body).
It is likely that Valverde and Baena will have to give evidence in relation to the confrontation that occurred after Real's 3-2 loss to Villarreal on April 8.
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More on the situation
If found guilty, Real's Uruguayan international faces a domestic ban of at least four games and up to 12 games.
The Spanish FA's investigation is likely to take more than a month, meaning Valverde should be available for the Copa del Rey final.
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