Real Madrid Confidencial Ancelotti Responds if Valverde Will Play Against Atlético in Champions: He...
The Uruguayan is the big unknown and the coach has revealed that a decision will be made about his presence in the classic after the training session.
Real Madrid faces a new classic in the Champions League with a big question: Will Fede Valverde make it to the match against Atlético?
The Uruguayan midfielder remains in doubt due to a hamstring injury that has kept him off the field in recent games.
Ancelotti Maintains the Uncertainty
In the pre-match press conference, Carlo Ancelotti spoke about Valverde's situation.
"He trained individually yesterday with good feelings. Today he will train with the team and then we will make the decision," revealed the Italian coach.
Madrid fans are hoping for his return, but his presence in the starting eleven is still not confirmed.
Valverde was injured on February 15 in Pamplona, during the match against Osasuna.
Days later, he forced his presence against Manchester City in the Champions League, which worsened his situation.
Since then, he hasn't played a single minute against Girona, Real Sociedad, and Betis.
Alternative at Right Back?
If Valverde is not available, Ancelotti will have to decide who will take his place.
When asked if the alternative will be Lucas Vázquez or Raúl Asencio, the Italian did not hesitate to respond:
"Lucas Vázquez," he said emphatically.
The Galician, a usual substitute at right back, is likely to start if Valverde doesn't make it in time.
A Crucial Match at the Bernabéu
Real Madrid and Atlético will face each other tomorrow at Santiago Bernabéu in the first leg of the Champions League round of 16.
Atlético arrives with confidence after a hard-fought victory against Athletic, with a goal by Julián Álvarez.
Madrid, on the other hand, comes from a tough 2-1 defeat against Betis, leaving a worrying impression.
The decision on Valverde will shape Ancelotti's line-up in a match that could be key for the tie.
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