Valverde back with Madrid for UCL derby against Atletico Madrid

Real Madrid are ready to face the first clash against Atletico in the last 16 of the Champions League. Los Blancos will face Los Rojiblancos at the Santiago Bernabeu, a game that Fede Valverde will not miss under any circumstances, as the Uruguayan completed the last training session prior to the clash on Monday.

The midfielder, who has been absent from the last three games due to femoral biceps discomfort, has returned to full fitness and is eager to get back into the starting eleven. However, it will be Ancelotti who will have the final say on whether he starts or if he has to wait for his chance on the bench.

The Italian coach spoke about it in the press room and clarified Charrua's situation: "On Sunday he trained on his own and now he will train with the team. After training we will make a decision on whether or not he will play on Tuesday. If he doesn't make it, Lucas will play on the right."

The only absentees from training were the injured Carvajal, Militao, Vallejo and Ceballos. Ancelotti may be playing a diversionary game with Valverde, who is likely to return to the right flank as it is a highly demanding game. However, the option in midfield should not be ruled out given the absence of Ceballos and Bellingham -the Englishman is suspended-.

 

March 3, 2025