Federico Valverde took 'injections and needles' to start Real Madrid's Champions League win against Man City due to 'not being in best shape'

According to Fabrizio Romano, the 26-year-old received injections to play in Madrid's Champions League play-off second leg tie against City in midweek. ASadded that he took the painkiller due to discomfort in his left thigh and after playing the game at right-back, he took another injection to manage the symptoms.

Madrid have been without talisman Dani Carvajal in the right-back spot for months now due to injury, so for Valverde to play through the pain in a less familiar position shows his commitment to his team's cause. Los Blancos went onto win the game 3-1 and advance to the last 16 of the Champions League.

Valverde, who is typically a midfielder, has been a key player for Madrid this season. He has played 41 times already and has eight goals to his name in all competitions.

It remains to be seen if Valverde will play against Girona on Sunday or if manager Carlo Ancelotti will rest the Uruguayan.