Problems for Real Madrid, two players injured

Real Madrid put in a disappointing performance in a goalless draw against Rayo Vallecano on Sunday afternoon, which has raised concerns as it came on the heels of another poor performance against Liverpool in midweek.

It has now been learned that other problems have emerged from the match in Vallecas, this time related to injuries.

In the 83rd minute of the match, Fede Valverde was forced to be replaced by Xabi Alonso, after feeling pain. The Uruguayan had also finished the match against Liverpool with physical discomfort, and according to Diario AS, the same problem was the reason for his substitution against Rayo, as the injury had not fully healed before he was introduced into the starting lineup in Vallecas.

Real Madrid will undergo medical tests on Valverde in the next 24 hours to determine the extent of the injury, which is bothering him in the hamstring and adductor. However, with the international break now over, there is optimism that he will not miss any of the club's matches.

Valverde was not the only Real Madrid player to finish the match against Rayo with a physical problem, as Thibaut Courtois is also reported to be feeling some discomfort in his thigh. He will also undergo medical examinations, but the general feeling is that his injury is not serious - although it remains to be seen whether he will be able to play for Belgium, who have important World Cup qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Liechtenstein next week.

Real Madrid will return to action after the international break with a trip to Elche and will no doubt be hoping that Valverde and Courtois are 100% fit for that match, as it is expected to be another tough challenge for the La Liga leaders.