According to a report by Madrid Universal on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde has disclosed that he is still experiencing discomfort from the muscle injury he picked up during the recent clash against Barcelona. His comments have sparked concerns about his recovery, especially as Jose Mourinho prepares his squad for the challenges ahead.

The Uruguayan international has joined his country's squad in Montevideo ahead of their upcoming international encounters against Argentina and the Dominican Republic. However, his arrival has not completely eased concerns surrounding his physical condition, as he admitted that he is yet to regain full fitness.

Valverde's situation could become an important issue for Real Madrid, who currently have 18 players away on international assignments. The club's medical department and coaching staff will be hoping that their representatives avoid injuries and return in good condition after the international break.

Mourinho will particularly want to avoid losing another important player because of fitness problems. The Portuguese manager recently acknowledged that fatigue was affecting some members of his squad after their victory over Valencia, suggesting that the demanding football calendar was beginning to take its toll.

Valverde's current problem can be traced back to October 25, when Real Madrid defeated Barcelona at Camp Nou. The midfielder suffered a muscle strain during the encounter and was withdrawn shortly after the second half began.

The injury subsequently prevented him from participating in the match against Racing Santander. He was also unable to get onto the pitch during the meeting with AEK Athens, remaining among the unused substitutes.

Despite those setbacks, the 27-year-old eventually returned to the starting team for the Valencia fixture. However, his latest admission indicates that the recovery process is still ongoing.

Speaking to Sport 890 upon his arrival in Montevideo, Valverde acknowledged that he was experiencing some physical discomfort and was not yet operating at his best. Nevertheless, he expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Uruguay national team and representing his country.

The midfielder also revealed how much he had anticipated reuniting with his international teammates, explaining that spending time with the squad was something he had genuinely looked forward to.

Away from his fitness situation, Valverde also discussed his changing responsibilities at Real Madrid, particularly his deployment at right-back.

Mourinho has increasingly trusted him in the defensive position, and the Uruguayan appears ready to embrace the responsibility. He explained that he was preparing himself to perform wherever the manager decided to use him, adding that his objective was to deliver excellent performances at full-back.

Valverde further explained that he enjoys testing his abilities through unfamiliar challenges and setting new targets for himself. Rather than viewing the positional adjustment as a problem, he considers it another opportunity to improve as a footballer.

He also reiterated his determination to serve Uruguay in whatever capacity the national team requires, regardless of where he is deployed on the pitch.

Nevertheless, his fitness remains the biggest concern following his latest revelation. Real Madrid supporters will be hoping that the international break provides sufficient time for their captain to overcome the remaining discomfort and return to Mourinho's squad without further complications.