Ligue 1

Federico Valverde Suffers Serious Ankle Injury After Atlético Derby Defeat

By Hugo Brennan

Federico Valverde Suffers Serious Ankle Injury After Atlético Derby Defeat

Real Madrid’s derby defeat has brought a fresh injury concern, with Federico Valverde diagnosed with a serious left-ankle problem after Sunday’s 2-1 loss to Atlético Madrid.

The Uruguay midfielder was hurt before half-time following a dangerous challenge from Lee Kang-in. No foul was given for the tackle, adding to Real Madrid’s anger over the refereeing decisions in the derby.

Despite the injury, Valverde completed the full match at the Santiago Bernabéu as Atlético claimed the victory.

Further tests planned

Real Madrid confirmed that Valverde has suffered a severe injury to his left ankle and said he will undergo further medical examinations in the coming hours.

The club have not yet set a possible return date for the 27-year-old, whose condition will be clearer after the additional assessments.

Valverde, who has made 76 appearances for Uruguay and scored nine international goals, now faces an anxious wait as Madrid assess the scale of the setback.