Real Madrid’s night at Anfield ended in disappointment, not just because of the narrow 0-1 defeat to Liverpool, but also due to fresh injury concerns surrounding one of their most influential midfielders – Federico Valverde.
According to a report from Mundo Deportivo, the Uruguayan international completed the match a muscle injury, prompting concern within the Madrid camp.
Valverde asked to be substituted and was ultimately replaced by Brahim Diaz in the closing moments of the game, clutching his leg in pain after what appeared to be a strain in his adductor muscle.
After the match, Valverde spoke about the situation, admitting uncertainty over the extent of his problem.
"The doctors told me my discomfort comes from fatigue, but we’ll see. I think I will undergo tests tomorrow or the day after," said the 27-year-old, clearly frustrated by the setback after a physically intense contest at Anfield.
Real Madrid’s medical staff carried out an initial assessment inside the stadium’s medical room immediately after the final whistle.
Depending on how the pain evolves in the coming hours, the player is expected to undergo an MRI scan to determine whether there is any serious muscle damage.
The next 24 hours will therefore be crucial in deciding Valverde’s availability for the club’s upcoming fixtures.
Manager Xabi Alonso already finds himself grappling with an alarming injury list, as Dani Carvajal, Antonio Rudiger, and David Alaba remain sidelined, while young talent Franco Mastantuono has also been ruled out due to pubalgia.
The potential absence of Valverde could severely disrupt Real Madrid’s tactical balance, particularly with Carvajal still recovering and Alonso reluctant to rely on Trent Alexander-Arnold in high-stakes encounters.
Against Liverpool, Alonso opted to start Valverde on the right side to maintain defensive stability.
Losing him now, especially with the November international break approaching, would be a major setback.