A Real Madrid star has expressed confusion over Carlo Ancelotti’s comments during a press conference following the team’s defeat to AC Milan, describing them as a “lie.”

Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde was unexpectedly substituted at halftime during their 3-1 defeat to AC Milan on Tuesday, alongside Aurelien Tchouameni. Following the match, Ancelotti mentioned that Valverde was struggling with fitness issues, including a back problem, which contributed to his early exit. However, Valverde has strongly disputed these claims, insisting that he felt fine during the game and was confused by Ancelotti’s remarks. According to reports from *Cadena Cope*, Valverde described Ancelotti’s comments as a “lie,” and he couldn’t understand why the back issue was being mentioned, as he didn’t experience any such problem.

The situation was further complicated when Valverde’s wife, Mina Bonino, criticized Ancelotti’s decision on social media, although she later deleted the tweet, claiming her account was hacked during the game. Despite this, the criticism reached Ancelotti in his press conference, where he stuck to his explanation of a back issue for the midfielder’s substitution.

This public disagreement adds to the tension within the club, especially as Valverde is one of Ancelotti’s most dependable players. While Real Madrid’s midfield has struggled this season, Valverde, at 26, remains a crucial part of the team and is often deployed in the central role. With the atmosphere reportedly tense both on and off the pitch, Ancelotti will need to be careful not to alienate his key players.