Valverde trains with the group but remains uncertain to start against Villarreal

Valverde, a major doubt for the starting line-up against Villarreal, trained with the group. Pending official confirmation, the Uruguayan could be included in the squad, as could Militao, but may start the match on the bench.

At the start of the session, the midfielder worked at the same pace as the rest of the players, taking part in the usual warm-up, rondos and physical activation exercises. Injured players Asencio, Mendy and Rodrygo were absent as they continued their recovery programmes.

Mourinho explained the uncertainty surrounding the Uruguayan’s place in his line-up after a grade-three ankle sprain sustained in the previous derby. “We don’t know if he is fit to play,” he said. Training with the group is a development to watch, but does not by itself confirm that Valverde will start against Villarreal.