Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde appears to be on track to return in time for this week’s Champions League derby against city rivals Atletico.
Valverde has missed Madrid’s last two La Liga games against Girona and Real Betis, as well as the Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad. His last appearance came in the Champions League knockout second-leg victory over Manchester City, a match in which he required painkilling injections due to thigh discomfort.
On Sunday, COPE journalist Miguel Angel Diaz reported that Valverde was expected to fully participate in Monday’s training session with the rest of the squad, which would determine his availability for the Atletico clash at the Bernabeu.
Ahead of training, Carlo Ancelotti confirmed, “We will decide after if he plays tomorrow.”
After the session, footage showed Valverde participating normally, suggesting that Ancelotti is likely to include the influential 26-year-old in his matchday squad.
Before his recent absence, Valverde had been filling in at right-back due to the injuries of Dani Carvajal and Lucas Vazquez. With Vazquez returning from a minor hamstring issue against Girona, it’s possible Valverde could be used in midfield, depending on Ancelotti’s tactical decision.
The two Madrid clubs have met twice in Champions League finals, in 2014 and 2016, with Real Madrid emerging victorious on both occasions. Additionally, the two are locked in an exciting La Liga title race with Barcelona, and Real Madrid moved back to the top of the table with a dominant 4-0 win over Real Sociedad on Sunday.
