Arturo Vidal sent back to Bayern Munich from Chile training after reports of night in casino
The midfielder received a two-year driving ban this summer
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Midfielder Arturo Vidal has left the Chilean national team after being granted a leave of absence.
A short statement released by the Football Federation of Chile on Tuesday cited 'personal problems' as the reason for the 28-year-old's early return to Bayern Munich.
Chilean media initially said that the reason behind Vidal's absence was his son's health.
However, several national media outlets have since reported that Vidal has been sent home for disciplinary reasons.
Newspaper El Mercurio claims that Vidal turned up to national team training unfit, having spent the previous night at a casino.
Vidal has insisted that his reasons for returning to Germany are legitimate and told reporters to 'stop making things up'.
"I would prefer it if you would be more kind to me in Chile, but some people just want to drag me through the mud," he said.
"It is for family problems and nothing more. The coach understood me and I am leaving on a positive note."
During this summer's Copa America, Vidal was handed a two-year driving ban after being found behind the wheel under the influence of alcohol and crashing his Ferrari.
The Independent has launched a new football app! Live scores, in-game stats, breaking news, videos and push notifications are just some of the many features. Use the links below to download and get more from Indy Football...
iPhone
http://ind.pn/iphonefootball
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments