Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde has suffered a grade-three sprain in his left ankle following Saturday’s Madrid derby defeat to Atlético Madrid. The Uruguayan international sustained the injury after a heavy challenge from Atlético winger Lee Kang-in, although he was able to complete the match before subsequent tests revealed the full extent of the damage.
Real Madrid’s first medical update, issued after the derby, described Valverde as having suffered “severe trauma” to his left ankle and confirmed that further tests would take place. Following those examinations, the club announced that the midfielder had been diagnosed with a grade-three sprain, adding that his recovery would be monitored. The club did not provide an official return timetable.
A grade-three sprain is the most serious classification of ligament sprain and can involve a complete tear of the affected ligament. Reports in the Spanish media have suggested that Valverde could be sidelined for around two to three weeks, although the exact length of his absence will depend on how his ankle responds to treatment.
The timing of the injury coincides with the start of the extended international window, giving the midfielder an opportunity to recover without an immediate club fixture. Valverde will not join the Uruguay national team for their upcoming friendlies against Japan, South Korea and India, instead remaining in Madrid to work on his rehabilitation with Real Madrid’s medical staff.
If his recovery progresses smoothly, Valverde could potentially be available for Real Madrid’s next La Liga match against Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabéu on October 10. However, that remains uncertain given the severity of the injury. Should he require additional recovery time, the Champions League fixture against Roma on October 14 may provide a more realistic target for his return.
Valverde’s absence would represent a major concern for José Mourinho, particularly given his importance as captain and his ability to operate across midfield and at right-back. Real Madrid will monitor his rehabilitation closely at Valdebebas throughout the international break.
