Valverde 'expected to be sidelined' after controversial derby tackle 🤕 | OneFootball

Valverde 'expected to be sidelined' after controversial derby tackle 🤕 | OneFootball

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Emily Wilson·20 September 2026

Valverde 'expected to be sidelined' after controversial derby tackle 🤕

Article image:Valverde 'expected to be sidelined' after controversial derby tackle 🤕

Real Madrid are making multiple headlines on Sunday following a defeat across town to rivals Atlético de Madrid. 

Jose Mourinho's side not only lost but also used the post-match press conference to air frustrations over the refereeing decisions.


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Los Blancos believe Atleti should have received two red cards for challenges on Federico Valverde and Jude Bellingham. 

According to a new report from The Athletic, the challenge on the Uruguayan is now "expected" to keep him sidelined for two to three weeks. 

Valverde suffered a left ankle injury after being stamped on by Kang-In Lee at the Metropolitano.

Not only would losing the captain be a blow for the club, but also for his national team. 

The report continues to say "staff sources do not anticipate Valverde joining up with Uruguay for the upcoming international break."


📸 THOMAS COEX - AFP or licensors

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