Real Madrid superstar not training with the group ahead of Rayo Vallecano clash | OneFootball

Federico Valverde was one of Real Madrid’s standout performers in their UEFA Champions League win against Atletico Madrid last Tuesday.

The Uruguayan midfielder returned to action after recovering from not playing three games in a row due to hamstring discomfort and put on a brilliant display in the right-back slot.

However, the 26-year-old did request to be substituted in the final minutes of the match as he was playing while not being 100% fit.

Not in training today

Now, Mundo Deportivo reports that Valverde did not train with the group today, instead working in the gym alongside physiotherapists and recovery specialists.

Real Madrid’s approach is to take the utmost care with the midfielder’s fitness. Despite this, the club insists that he is in good condition and has no major issues.

Valverde played vs Atletico without being at 100% fitness. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

So much so that Valverde has not been ruled out for Sunday’s match against Rayo Vallecano.

In fact, sources within Real Madrid indicate that if the Champions League match against Atletico were scheduled for this Sunday instead of next week, Valverde would be fit to play.

The second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 at the Metropolitano next Wednesday is the primary objective for both Valverde and manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Ensuring the Uruguayan international is physically prepared for that crucial encounter is the absolute priority, and the Italian coach will not take any risks with him in the meantime.

So, it remains to be seen whether Valverde features for Los Blancos this weekend against Rayo or is given a rest by the manager so that he is fully fit and ready for the second-leg tie against Atletico next week.