Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde admits he played through pain against Barcelona: ‘Hopefully I’m not injured’

Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde admits he played through pain against Barcelona: ‘Hopefully I’m not injured’ Federico Valverde raised concerns over a possible hamstring injury after leaving Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clasico.  The Real Madrid captain was substituted in the 62nd minute after appearing to struggle with pain in his leg, although the club had not announced a medical diagnosis by late Sunday night. Valverde started at right-back at Camp Nou and was seen clutching the back of his hamstring before Denzel Dumfries replaced him.  The midfielder subsequently suggested the decision to withdraw him was precautionary, but his comments offered no definitive confirmation that he had avoided an injury. Valverde reveals pain after being substituted against Barcelona Speaking to Real Madrid TV , Valverde admitted he had been experiencing significant discomfort during the match.  The captain also explained that he had agreed to continue playing when asked by the coach, underlining his determination to help his team secure an important result. “I had a lot of pain in my leg, but hopefully I’m not injured. “I think it was just a precaution. The coach asked me if I could play despite the pain, and of course I said yes. “The most important thing is to help the team win.” Jose Mourinho said after the match that Valverde had played more than 40 minutes while hurt.  That raises questions over the extent of the problem, although the precise nature and severity of the suspected hamstring injury remain unconfirmed. Real Madrid await clarity over suspected hamstring problem Real Madrid had not published an official diagnosis as of late Sunday night, meaning any suggestion that Valverde has sustained a hamstring injury must be treated cautiously. The 62nd-minute substitution was an obvious concern given the pain he appeared to be experiencing, particularly with the midfielder playing an important role for the team. Medical examinations and an official update will be needed to establish whether he faces any spell on the sidelines. Valverde played through pain against Barcelona. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) For now, Valverde’s assessment offers some encouragement, but his hope that the problem is only precautionary should not be mistaken for confirmation that he has escaped injury. Valverde praises Mbappe and Lunin after El Clasico win Away from his own fitness concerns, Valverde congratulated Kylian Mbappe on reaching 100 goals for Real Madrid and praised Andriy Lunin for his contribution despite limited playing time. “Congratulations to both of them. Kylian has already overtaken me in terms of goals, even though he joined the club after I did… I’m absolutely delighted for him. “He’s working hard and he deserves it. He’s a great player, a star and a role model. I’m delighted he’s continuing to score goals for us because it’s important. “As for Lunin, there are no words to describe what he’s done today and what he does every day. He gets fewer minutes because Courtois is here, but he’s always working behind the scenes and giving his all with a smile on his face. “That’s why he makes such an impact when he comes on, and why he’s ready whenever his turn comes,” he concluded.