Valverde set to miss 25 October Clasico after suffering serious ankle injury

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde is expected to be out for at least eight weeks after being diagnosed with a grade-three sprain of his left ankle.

The injury, sustained in the derby against Atletico Madrid, was confirmed by Real Madrid 24 hours after the defeat. Kang-in Lee was involved in the incident which left Valverde injured.

The Uruguay international has been ruled out of the current international break, while the severity of the diagnosis is expected to keep him out during one of the busiest periods of Real Madrid’s season.

Real Madrid announced the findings after Valverde underwent tests at the club’s medical facilities in Valdebebas.

“Following the tests carried out today by Real Madrid’s medical staff on our player Fede Valverde, he has been diagnosed with a grade-three sprain in his left ankle, with his recovery subject to further assessment,” the club said.

Although Real Madrid did not give a specific recovery timeline, Spanish publication Sport reported that a grade-three ankle sprain involves a complete or near-complete tear of the ligaments. Such an injury normally requires a minimum of eight weeks of rehabilitation if recovery progresses without complications.

That timeframe means Valverde will miss the Clasico against Barcelona on 25 October at Camp Nou. The match had been viewed by Jose Mourinho as an important opportunity in the battle for top spot.

Valverde is also set to miss seven decisive matches in the Spanish league and two Champions League group-stage games. His absence comes as the gap to leaders Barcelona has begun to grow.

It leaves Mourinho without one of Real Madrid’s most versatile players. Valverde has been used in midfield, at right-back and on the wing, and his ability to cover several positions has made him a key part of the side.

The injury therefore represents a major setback for Real Madrid beyond the immediate loss of one player. Valverde’s extended absence will remove a significant option from the squad during a stretch featuring domestic fixtures and Champions League commitments.

The club’s statement said his recovery would continue to be monitored through further medical assessments, but the initial diagnosis has already ruled him out of the next international period and the meeting with Barcelona.