Concern grows at Real Madrid with key midfielder absent from training ahead of Atletico clash | OneFootball

Real Madrid are growing increasingly concerned about Federico Valverde’s fitness ahead of their crucial Champions League clash against Atletico Madrid next Tuesday.

According to the latest update from AS, the Uruguayan midfielder was unable to take part in group training today, raising doubts over his availability for the highly anticipated European derby.

It must be noted that Valverde has been struggling with a persistent groin muscle issue, and his recovery has become a race against time.

His absence was already felt in Real Madrid’s recent match against Real Betis, where he was not included in the squad. Now, with just a couple of days remaining before the crucial clash against Atletico, his participation remains uncertain.

“Valverde has trained individually inside and on the pitch. Tomorrow it will be decided if he can train with the group,” read the information from Real Madrid.

Problems for Ancelotti

Carlo Ancelotti is facing mounting problems ahead of this decisive fixture. The team is already dealing with the suspension of Jude Bellingham, who will be unavailable for the Champions League match.

Federico Valverde did not train with the group. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images)

If Valverde is deemed fit in time, Ancelotti will need to decide how best to utilise him. The Uruguayan could either be deployed on the right flank or positioned in central midfield alongside Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni.

However, if Valverde is ruled out, Real Madrid’s options will be significantly limited.

In that scenario, Lucas Vazquez may have to step in on the right wing, while Ancelotti would need to choose between Brahim Diaz or Arda Guler to partner with Camavinga and Tchouameni in midfield.

More absentees

To further complicate matters, Dani Ceballos is also sidelined due to injury, leaving the manager with few alternatives. Meanwhile, Raul Asencio is expected to return to the starting eleven and partner Antonio Rudiger in central defence.

With time running out, all eyes will be on Valverde’s condition as Real Madrid await a final decision on his availability.

Ancelotti will have to make a late call regarding his lineup, knowing that the midfielder’s presence could prove crucial in a must-win encounter.