Real Madrid have confirmed that Fede Valverde has been diagnosed with a grade-three sprain of his left ankle following the club’s 2-1 defeat to Atlético Madrid in the Madrid derby.
The Uruguay international sustained the injury during the first half after a heavy challenge from Atlético midfielder Lee Kang-in. Valverde continued playing until the final whistle, but subsequent medical tests revealed the extent of the damage.
Real Madrid initially described the problem as severe trauma to the left ankle before further examinations confirmed the grade-three sprain. Reports indicate that Valverde is expected to be sidelined for around two to three weeks, ruling him out of Uruguay’s upcoming international fixtures.
Softfootball understands that the injury is another setback for Real Madrid after their disappointing derby defeat, although Valverde’s absence is not expected to be long-term.
The midfielder had been an important figure for José Mourinho’s side and had recently reached 250 La Liga appearances for the club. Before the derby, he also played a key role in Real Madrid’s 3-2 victory over Elche.
It was during that win that Valverde praised young forward Yan Diomande following the Ivorian’s impressive performance.
Valverde highlighted Diomande’s ability in one-on-one situations and revealed the confidence the Real Madrid squad has in the youngster. He also praised the spectacular assist Diomande provided for Kylian Mbappé during the victory.
The 19-year-old had broken into the area before finding Mbappé with a precise pass, allowing the Frenchman to continue his scoring form.
Softfootball notes that while Valverde will now spend several weeks on the sidelines, his earlier praise underlines the growing confidence around Diomande as the young attacker continues his adaptation to first-team football at the Santiago Bernabéu.
