Real Madrid delivered a disappointing performance in their goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday afternoon, raising concerns as it came right after another poor display against Liverpool in midweek.
It has now been learned that the match in Vallecas also brought further issues — this time related to injuries, reports Gazeta Express.
In the 83rd minute of the game, Fede Valverde was forced to be substituted by Xabi Alonso after feeling pain. The Uruguayan had already finished the Liverpool match with physical discomfort, and according to Diario AS, the same issue was the reason for his substitution against Rayo, as the injury had not fully healed before he was included in the starting lineup in Vallecas.
Real Madrid will subject Valverde to medical tests within the next 24 hours to determine the extent of the injury, which is affecting the back of his thigh and his adductor muscle. However, since the international break is now underway, there is optimism that he will not miss any club matches.
Valverde was not the only Real Madrid player to finish the match against Rayo with physical problems, as Thibaut Courtois is also reported to be experiencing discomfort in his thigh. He will also undergo medical examinations, but the general feeling is that his injury is not serious — although it remains to be seen whether he will be able to play for Belgium, who have important World Cup qualifying matches against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein next week.
Real Madrid will return to action after the international break with an away trip to Elche, and will certainly be hoping that both Valverde and Courtois are back to full fitness for that game, as it is expected to be another tough challenge for the La Liga leaders.
