Real Madrid are set to face Girona in a crucial La Liga fixture this Sunday, but they will have to do so without one of their most reliable players. Federico Valverde, a cornerstone of Carlo Ancelotti’s squad, will be missing from the lineup due to persistent pain and physical fatigue. This unexpected absence has raised concerns among Madridistas, especially given the Uruguayan’s importance in recent matches.
Valverde has been one of Madrid’s standout performers this season, playing a key role in multiple positions. Whether in midfield, on the right wing, or even as a right-back, his versatility has been a vital asset for Ancelotti. His recent performances against Manchester City in the Champions League showcased his tireless work rate, but they also took a toll on his body.
Reports from Spanish media suggest that Valverde has been playing through discomfort for weeks. Despite showing no visible signs of exhaustion on the pitch, the Uruguayan is reportedly on the brink of physical breakdown. Having played the most minutes of any Real Madrid player this season, the demands of constant high-intensity matches have finally caught up with him.
The coaching staff has been closely monitoring Valverde’s condition, and after his latest appearance against Manchester City, they decided that it would be too risky to include him in the squad for Girona. While Madrid would benefit greatly from his presence, protecting his long-term fitness is the priority.
This is not the first time Ancelotti has had to make a tough call regarding player workload. Earlier in the season, Antonio Rüdiger suffered a muscle injury after an extended run of games, forcing the manager to rethink his squad rotation strategy. With Valverde now at risk, Ancelotti is determined not to repeat the same mistake.
Valverde’s absence means that Ancelotti will have to shuffle his lineup. With Dani Carvajal already ruled out, Lucas Vázquez is likely to step in as a right-back. Meanwhile, Eduardo Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni could take on more responsibilities in midfield. This will also be an opportunity for fringe players like Arda Güler to get more minutes.
Despite Madrid’s depth, Valverde’s absence will be felt. His ability to press, drive forward, and dictate the tempo of matches has been a crucial element of Madrid’s success. Without him, Ancelotti will need to rely more on individual brilliance from the likes of Vinícius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, and Rodrygo Goes to break down Girona’s defense.
Girona, on the other hand, will look to take advantage of Madrid’s weakened lineup. Although they have struggled for consistency this season, they remain a dangerous side capable of causing upsets. Real Madrid will need to be cautious, especially in transition, where Valverde’s defensive contributions are often overlooked but highly valuable.
Another key factor in Valverde’s absence is the upcoming ChampionsLeague round of 16 clash against Atlético Madrid. The Uruguayan is expected to play a crucial role in that fixture, and Ancelotti does not want to take any risks before such an important European tie.
Madrid fans will hope that this break will allow Valverde to recover fully and return stronger for the decisive weeks ahead. While he may be missing against Girona, his long-term fitness is far more important for Madrid’s ambitions this season.
The decision to rest Valverde is a reminder of the delicate balance top clubs must strike between maximizing player output and preventing burnout. With injuries piling up in key areas, Ancelotti’s management of his squad could make or break Madrid’s season.
For now, Madrid will have to cope without one of their most influential players. The hope is that his absence will be brief and that when he returns, he will be back to his best, ready to lead Madrid into the latter stages of the campaign.
In the meantime, all eyes will be on Ancelotti’s tactical adjustments and how Madrid handle Girona’s challenge without their tireless midfield engine. It’s a moment that will test Madrid’s squad depth and resilience as they continue their push for La Liga glory.
With or without Valverde, the Merengues cannot afford to drop points, especially with Barcelona and Atlético Madrid breathing down their necks. The pressure is on, and Madrid must rise to the occasion.