Zidane updates Varane’s condition for Sunday’s match against Valencia

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane spoke about Raphael Varane’s physical condition after the defender missed the team’s training session just a day ahead of Madrid’s home game against Valencia.

“He wants to play, wants to wear this jersey, but he has picked something up and we cannot risk him. We're looking at it but tomorrow would be a risk. I don't want to risk things, given that Sergio Ramos and Vallejo are injured, we cannot risk this player, that is important for us. He is strong, really physical. The injury came in the first leg at Camp Nou and since then, 15 days have passed. He has trained, he has had rest and for us it is better not to force him but to try to solve his problem.”

“We'll make the most of the break to focus on recovery. He is better but from time to time he has some minor niggles. I think it's the right side that is giving him problems. He could play tomorrow but we do not want to risk it and it is a more serious injury. We are coping with all this and trying to make him stay here to recover the next few days. The health of the player is the most vital thing,” said the French coach.

All things considered, it looks like either Casemiro or Llorente will play alongside Nacho in the center of Madrid’s defensive line.