Real Madrid star was not forced off with injury during El Clasico | OneFootball

Real Madrid had an excellent afternoon on Sunday as they picked up their first victory in El Clasico for over a year. However, it was not perfect, as Andriy Lunin was sent off during a touchline melee, while stand-in captain Federico Valverde had to be substituted in the second half.

Valverde started at right-back for the fourth match in a row, but he lasted only 72 minutes before having to be replaced by the returning Dani Carvajal. He was noticeably in some discomfort as he left the pitch, which sparked fears of a possible injury – although these have since been allayed.

As per Marca, Valverde was withdrawn by Real Madrid head coach Xabi Alonso because he was suffering with a fever, which he has picked up prior to Sunday’s match. He has tried to play through the issue, but it was ultimately decided for him to be taken off for Carvajal at a crucial stage of proceedings.

Image via Angel Martinez/Getty Images

Valverde should be available for next weekend

Valverde has been a vital player for Real Madrid this season, both at right-back and in midfield. Alonso will be desperate to continue having him available, and given that there is no midweek match, the Uruguay international will have a full week to recover ahead of Saturday’s match against Valencia at the Santiago Bernabeu.

But even if he were to not be available, Real Madrid are now well-stocked. At right-back, Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are both fit again after injury, and in midfield, Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham have come to the fore after their own respective absences. In this regard, Valverde is no longer as relied upon as he has been, although he is still a crucial player for Alonso.

Valverde should be fine for next week, but still, it remains to be seen whether he keeps his place in the starting line-up.