Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde did not participate in the team’s training session on Wednesday, instead working in the gym alongside physiotherapists and recovery specialists. According to Mundo Deportivo, Valverde’s absence from training is a precautionary measure to ensure he is fully fit for the team’s upcoming matches.

Valverde had recently returned to action after recovering from a hamstring issue that kept him sidelined for three games. He played a crucial role in Real Madrid’s UEFA Champions League win against Atletico Madrid last Tuesday, but requested to be substituted in the final minutes of the match as he was not yet 100% fit.

Despite his current fitness issues, Valverde has not been ruled out for Sunday’s match against Rayo Vallecano. However, Real Madrid’s primary focus is on ensuring he is fully prepared for the second leg of the Champions League Round of 16 against Atletico Madrid next Wednesday.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti will not take any risks with Valverde’s fitness, and it remains to be seen whether he will feature against Rayo Vallecano this weekend. The Italian coach will prioritize Valverde’s readiness for the crucial Champions League tie.

In other news, Real Madrid could earn a significant financial boost if they win the FIFA Club World Cup in July. According to MARCA, the Spanish giants stand to earn a staggering €145 million if they lift the trophy.

The prize pool for the tournament is $1 billion (€929 million), with European clubs set to receive the largest share. Real Madrid are already guaranteed to earn €35 million, with the potential for additional earnings depending on their performance in the tournament.

If Real Madrid win all three of their group-stage matches and go on to lift the trophy, they will collect a total of €145 million, surpassing the €119 million they earned for winning the UEFA Champions League last season.