Federico Valverde has seized the opportunity presented by the international break to rejuvenate his form, following a challenging period with Real Madrid. The Uruguayan midfielder, who has often been a staple in the starting lineup under coaches like Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso, faced a significant setback after the heavy 5-2 defeat against Atlético Madrid. This loss not only affected the team’s morale but also placed Valverde under scrutiny for his recent performances.
After the derby debacle, Valverde’s candid remarks during a pre-match press conference in Kazakhstan raised eyebrows. He questioned the commitment of his teammates, expressing disappointment over their attitude. Just prior to this, he had made headlines for his reluctance to play as a right-back amid injuries to Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold, stating, “I wasn’t born to play as a full-back.” His comments sparked discussions about his role within the squad and the tactical flexibility required of him.
A Fresh Start After Struggles
Valverde’s recent performances had not lived up to expectations, both on and off the pitch. Acknowledging his struggles, he stated, “I know I’ve played poorly; I’m aware of it. I’m not hiding and I take responsibility. I’m genuinely sad about it.” However, he managed to turn the narrative around during a crucial match against Villarreal where he excelled in the right-back position. Xabi Alonso praised him, saying, “He played a fantastic game. He was heavily involved in our attacking play, created goal-scoring opportunities, and contributed defensively.”
Focused on Recovery
After being released from international duty by coach Marcelo Bielsa, who opted to rest him during Uruguay’s friendly matches, Valverde remained at Real Madrid’s training ground in Valdebebas. This allowed him ample time to recover and work on his fitness while many of his teammates were away. As a result, he is expected to return in peak condition for their next match this Sunday, likely continuing in the right-back role due to ongoing injuries within the squad.
The upcoming game represents not just an opportunity for Valverde to reaffirm his place in the team but also a chance to silence critics who have questioned his versatility and commitment. Can he maintain this newfound momentum? With eyes on him, Valverde’s performance will be pivotal as Real Madrid looks to regain their winning form.
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