Repositioned on the right side of Real Madrid’s defence during the play-offs against Manchester City, Federico Valverde (26) has shared his thoughts on this role. For Carlo Ancelotti, this is a crucial piece of information that could change everything.
Aurélien Tchouaméni has stepped out of midfield to fill in at the back on several occasions this season. With numerous injuries in defence, Carlo Ancelotti has no choice but to improvise. Before the two-legged play-off tie for a place in the Champions League last 16 against Manchester City, Lucas Vázquez picked up an injury. As the only natural right-back in the squad since Dani Carvajal’s season-ending injury and withdrawal, Vázquez’s absence forced Federico Valverde to step in. Against the Citizens, the Uruguayan midfielder simply excelled.
Good news: Valverde enjoys playing at right-back
While many believe he should continue as a right-back in big games this season, Federico Valverde himself has no issue with the idea. According to Marca this Saturday, the Uruguayan midfielder expressed his joy and satisfaction after the double clash with Manchester City. Very comfortable on the right side of defence, the natural midfielder has stated he is willing to continue filling in. “Fede Valverde is starting to enjoy playing at right-back and appreciates the influence of this role in matches,” sources within Los Blancos reveal.
Unlike Tchouaméni, who isn’t particularly fond of playing in defence, Valverde has left the door wide open for Carlo Ancelotti, who will certainly welcome the option. According to the same sources within La Casa Blanca, the Madrid coach has reportedly decided to field his all-rounder in defence instead of Vázquez, who has disappointed in big matches, particularly against fresher and more dynamic attackers.
At 26, Federico Valverde remains one of the fittest players in the Madrid squad. Strong on his feet and always ready for a duel, he performed brilliantly against the highly rated Raúl Asensio, shutting down Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush last Wednesday. If he stays injury-free, Fede could be a huge asset for Madrid’s defence. This weekend, he is expected to sit out the 25th La Liga matchday against Girona to rest and recharge his batteries, which are running low.
With the Champions League last-16 tie against Atlético Madrid fast approaching, fingers are crossed for the versatile Madrid captain to regain full fitness as soon as possible.
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