Why is Federico Valverde not starting for Real Madrid vs AEK Athens in the 2026-27 Champions League?

Real Madrid visit AEK Athens in Matchday 4 of the 2026-27 Champions League, and the big surprise is that captain Federico Valverde is not among the starters. Manager Jose Mourinho has left the Uruguayan midfielder on the bench in the club’s confirmed lineup, and Denzel Dumfries has been chosen to take his place on the … Real Madrid visit AEK Athens in Matchday 4 of the 2026-27 Champions League , and the big surprise is that captain Federico Valverde is not among the starters.