Villarreal’s Alex Baena has revealed his family have received death threats after he was allegedly attacked by Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde.

The 21-year-old also confirmed that he has reported the alleged incident to police and is now focussed on finishing the season strongly with his club. 

He said in a statement on Instagram: “Last Saturday I was assaulted by a fellow professional after the match against Real Madrid.

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“After the event, some statements allegedly made by his entourage came to light, in which it was said that I had wished for the death of a family member.

“Since then, there has been no evidence published to prove the allegations made against me. A tragedy was used to justify the aggression and there are lies that hurt more than the blows.

“The damage being done to my family is irreparable and unjustifiable: threats, insults and even private messages wishing death to my family.

“Yesterday I reported the case to the police. Let justice do its job. My only objective now is to focus on my profession and help my club to achieve its objectives.”

Valverde allegedly punched Baena in a furious confrontation after the teams’ La Liga match on Saturday.

The players clashed moments after Villarreal had earned a dramatic 3-2 win with two goals in the last 20 minutes at Real’s Bernabeu home.

Valverde, 24, confronted Baena in the area where the team buses park up at the stadium and threw a punch at him.

Baena was later seen with a bruised and swollen cheekbone.

The pair had also clashed during the game, with Valverde having told Baena that he would later confront him after the match.

The Athletic has been told by sources, who wish to remain anonymous to protect their relationships, that the pair’s feud dates back to a meeting between the teams in January in the Copa del Rey when Baena directed a personal insult at Valverde.

Baena is alleged to have made a comment to Valverde about the unborn baby his wife, Mina Bonino, was carrying after it was rumoured she was suffering serious problems with the pregnancy.

Baena and his representatives have strongly denied that.

Villarreal said in a statement on Sunday: “Villarreal CF footballer Álex Baena was assaulted last night on his way to the team bus after the match against Real Madrid CF at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.

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“In view of this situation, the player has decided to file a complaint against the aggressor with the National Police.

“Once again, Villarreal CF rejects any act of violence and firmly believes in the player’s version of events and will support him throughout this process.”

(Photo: Getty Images)