Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has withdrawn from the Uruguay national team squad ahead of their upcoming fixtures due to a back issue, sparking concerns over his fitness ahead of a crucial summer for both club and country. The decision, confirmed by the Uruguayan Football Association (AUF), comes just weeks before the 2024 Copa América, where Valverde was expected to play a central role in Uruguay’s campaign.
The 25-year-old has been one of Uruguay’s standout players in recent years and is widely regarded as one of the top midfielders in the world. His versatility, energy, and tactical intelligence have made him an indispensable figure for both Real Madrid and the national side. However, with persistent discomfort in his back, medical staff from both the AUF and Real Madrid reportedly agreed that it was in Valverde’s best interest to step aside from international duty temporarily and focus on recovery.
Valverde’s absence from the squad is a significant blow to Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa’s plans. The team is currently in the final stages of preparation for the Copa América, set to begin in the United States later this month. Uruguay is drawn in a competitive group alongside the United States, Panama, and Bolivia. With Valverde out, Bielsa will be forced to reassess his midfield options, possibly turning to younger or less experienced players to fill the void.
The AUF released an official statement noting Valverde’s withdrawal, citing “ongoing discomfort in the lower back” and emphasizing the need for “caution and proper rehabilitation” to ensure the midfielder’s long-term health. While the exact severity of the injury has not been disclosed, sources close to the team suggest it is not believed to be serious, but enough to warrant precautionary measures. The decision underscores how vital Valverde is to both club and country, and how neither party wants to risk aggravating a manageable injury into something more serious.
At Real Madrid, Valverde played a key role in the 2023–24 season, helping Los Blancos secure both La Liga and reach the UEFA Champions League final. His contributions throughout the campaign included tireless midfield performances, key assists, and the ability to play in multiple roles, including as a right winger when needed. His durability has been one of his most praised attributes, as he has avoided serious injuries for much of his career. That makes this recent back issue particularly noteworthy, raising questions about whether the demanding schedule of both domestic and international competitions has started to take its toll.
In the broader context of Uruguay’s tournament hopes, Valverde’s absence could be pivotal. Bielsa’s high-pressing, high-intensity style requires players with stamina and positional awareness — qualities that Valverde brings in abundance. His understanding of the game, defensive work rate, and ability to drive forward in transition are traits not easily replaced. While Uruguay boasts other experienced midfielders like Rodrigo Bentancur and Manuel Ugarte, Valverde’s unique combination of attributes will be missed if he is unable to return in time for the Copa América.
On a personal level, the injury could not come at a worse time for Valverde. The Copa América is not just a chance for international silverware but also an opportunity to cement his status among the top echelon of global midfielders. After a strong season with Madrid, a commanding performance in the continental tournament would have further elevated his reputation. However, both the player and the Uruguayan medical staff seem to be prioritizing long-term fitness over short-term gain — a mature and strategic choice.
Uruguayan fans will now watch closely for updates on Valverde’s recovery, hopeful that the injury is minor and that he will rejoin the squad before the tournament kicks off. With Bielsa known for his adaptability, the manager may adjust his tactics slightly in Valverde’s absence or test new combinations in midfield during pre-tournament friendlies. Regardless, the road to Copa América glory just became more complicated for La Celeste.
In the coming days, more clarity is expected from Real Madrid’s medical team, and Valverde himself may address the situation on social media, as he often does to reassure fans. For now, Uruguay must plan without their dynamic midfield engine — and hope that his time on the sidelin
es will be brief.
