Why isn’t Fede Valverde playing for Real Madrid vs Mallorca today?
The Uruguayan midfielder and Vinícius Júnior are both absent from the Madrid starting lineup at Son Moix.
Real Madrid resume their LaLiga title chase on Saturday with a road game against Mallorca, but they must make do without in-form midfielder Fede Valverde, who is suspended for the clash at Son Moix.
Valverde received a one-match ban following his sending off in the second half of Madrid’s derby win against Atlético on March 22, their last game before the international break. The Uruguayan was shown a straight red card for what was deemed a dangerous challenge in midfield on Atleti’s Alex Baena.
Youngster Manuel Ángel has been drafted into the starting lineup, making his first senior start in Valverde’s place.
Valverde suspension forces midfield reshuffle
Madrid lose one of their most influential players at a key moment in the title race. His absence opens the door for Manuel Ángel, who now has a chance to impress from the start in a high-pressure away fixture.
Why isn’t Vinícius Júnior starting against Mallorca?
Valverde is not the only big name missing from the starting lineup. Vinícius Júnior has been named among the substitutes, with head coach Álvaro Arbeloa explaining during the week that the Brazilian is dealing with fatigue after a busy start to 2026.
One eye on Bayern Munich showdown
Vinícius’ reduced role also reflects Madrid’s need to manage minutes carefully ahead of a crucial Champions League clash.
Vinícius’ absence from the starting lineup is partly linked to the first leg of their quarterfinal tie against Bayern Munich, which will be played at the Santiago Bernabéu on Tuesday, April 7.
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