Overview
- Real Madrid said tests carried out on Tuesday confirmed captain Federico Valverde has a grade 3 sprain in his left ankle and that his recovery will be monitored by the club medical team.
- The injury followed a heavy challenge by Atlético's Kang-in Lee during the Madrid derby that drew protests from Real Madrid and a decision by referee Miguel Angel Ortiz Arias not to send Lee off.
- The club has not given a return date and public estimates differ sharply, with some local reports suggesting about two weeks and medical analysis noting grade 3 sprains often need around eight weeks of rehab.
- Valverde has been withdrawn from Uruguay's international window and will remain in Spain for treatment, leaving José Mourinho to reshuffle midfield options for matches after the break.
- A grade 3 sprain typically means major ligament damage rather than simple swelling, which explains why Real Madrid are cautious about timelines and why the injury could sideline Valverde for multiple key fixtures.