Fede Valverde returns to Real Madrid training: Will he play against Sevilla this weekend?

Fede Valverde took a step toward returning to full fitness on Friday, reappearing at Real Madrid’s training complex in Valdebebas eight days after his altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni.

The Uruguayan midfielder participated in part of the session, but under clear restrictions and with close medical supervision.

Valverde aims for Athletic return

Valverde completed light rondo drills and shooting work, but avoided any exercises involving physical contact or potential impact. His workload was carefully managed under a protocol set by club doctors, who will determine in the coming days whether he is fit to feature in the final LaLiga match against Athletic Club on Saturday, May 23, subject to scheduling changes by the league.

The 27-year-old is not in consideration for Sunday’s game away to Sevilla.

Concussion and recovery timeline after locker room incident

Friday’s session marked Valverde’s first return to group activity since the incident on Thursday, May 7, which reportedly began as a confrontation with Tchouaméni and ended with the Uruguay international being taken to the hospital.

During the altercation, Valverde slipped and struck his head on a locker room table. He suffered a head injury and was diagnosed with a concussion, with medical staff prescribing 10 to 14 days of rest to prevent complications.

Beyond the medical concerns, both players were also subject to internal disciplinary proceedings, resulting in fines of €500,000 (over $580,000) each.

Real Madrid managing squad fitness despite settled league position

Although Real Madrid have already secured second place in LaLiga regardless of their remaining results, the team has not slowed down after their win over Real Oviedo.

Sevilla await on Sunday at Ramón Sánchez-Pizjuán Stadium, with kickoff set for 7 p.m. local time (1 p.m. ET).

Defender Dean Huijsen has returned to training after recovering from a viral illness, while goalkeeper Andriy Lunin remains sidelined. Alongside Valverde, Ferland Mendy, Éder Militão, Arda Güler, and Rodrygo are all unavailable for the trip to Seville.

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