Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde provides worrying fitness update: ‘I’m not 100% fit’

Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde provides worrying fitness update: ‘I’m not 100% fit’ Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde has admitted that he is still struggling with muscle discomfort after sustaining an injury against Barcelona, raising concerns for Jose Mourinho during the November international break. The Uruguay international arrived in Montevideo to join his national team ahead of their upcoming fixtures against Argentina and the Dominican Republic, but acknowledged that he is not yet fully recovered.  His admission comes at an uncomfortable time for Real Madrid, who have 18 players away on international duty and are hoping to avoid further injury problems. It is to be noted that, Mourinho had already expressed concern about his squad’s physical condition following the victory over Valencia, warning that several players were experiencing extreme fatigue.  Valverde admits he is still struggling after Barcelona injury Valverde’s physical problems date back to Real Madrid’s Clasico win against Barcelona at Camp Nou on October 25. The midfielder suffered a muscle strain and was forced off at the beginning of the second half. He has continued to experience discomfort since then, missing the match against Racing Santander before remaining on the bench against AEK.  Valverde admits he is not completely fit. (Photo by Milos Bicanski/Getty Images) The Uruguayan subsequently returned to the starting XI against Valencia, despite not being completely fit. Speaking to Sport 890 (h/t Mundo Deportivo ) after arriving in Montevideo, Valverde acknowledged his physical condition while explaining his enthusiasm about representing Uruguay. “I’m still feeling a bit of discomfort and I’m not 100% fit, but you always have to come up for the national team – it’s always good to be here.  “I was really looking forward to coming and spending time with my teammates on a day-to-day basis,” said the Real Madrid captain. Valverde embraces his new role as Mourinho’s right-back The Real Madrid captain also discussed his increasingly regular deployment at right-back , a position that has become an important part of Mourinho’s tactical plans. Although Valverde has previously occupied the role when required, it now appears to be a more permanent responsibility under the Portuguese manager.  Valverde is ready to give his all to Real Madrid. (Photo by Clive Brunskill/Getty Images) The Uruguayan made it clear that he has no reservations about adapting to the demands of his new position. “I prepare myself to play wherever the manager wants me to play. At the moment I’m playing at full-back and I’m preparing to do well there and to be the best in my position,” he said. Lastly, he also explained that embracing different challenges is something he considers important for his development as a footballer. “I like to challenge myself day in, day out, to seek out new challenges and goals, and this is one of them – I’m going to give it my all.  “Then, with the national team, if I’m called upon to play in another position, I’ll work as hard as I can,” explained Valverde.