Indispensable in Real Madrid’s squad, Federico Valverde faced the press this Tuesday to discuss the second-leg play-off against Manchester City. Speaking to the media, he opened up about Jude Bellingham, who has been making headlines since Saturday following his red card against Osasuna.
After a frustrating weekend match in La Liga against Osasuna, Real Madrid return to the Santiago Bernabéu for a huge showdown against Manchester City. Victorious in the first leg last Tuesday, Carlo Ancelotti’s side will take on Pep Guardiola’s Sky Blues on Wednesday night, aiming to secure qualification for the Champions League Round of 16. Ahead of this crucial match, Federico Valverde appeared before the press. Asked about various topics, the Uruguayan midfielder stood out when addressing a question about Jude Bellingham.
Valverde doesn’t want Bellingham to change
Another key player in Real Madrid’s squad, the English midfielder has been making the front pages in recent weeks due to his fiery character. Highly engaged on the pitch, the former Borussia Dortmund star never misses an opportunity to stand out—both among his teammates and especially when dealing with referees. On Saturday in Osasuna, he was sent off for a comment directed at the match official. While the incident has sparked controversy in Spain, Federico Valverde refuses to ask his teammate to change. “I love Jude Bellingham’s competitiveness, I don’t want him to change.”
Unlike Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, who made a sharp remark about players and referees, Valverde believes he has nothing to criticise his teammates for. “I would never tell a player not to protest to the referees. Players give their all,” the 26-year-old stated. This is a strong show of support for Bellingham, who will have to shine against Manchester City on Wednesday.
Bellingham and Valverde expected to step up against the Citizens
Following their 3-2 victory in the first leg, Real Madrid must be extremely cautious against Manchester City. With players like Kevin De Bruyne, Erling Haaland, Omar Marmoush, and Savinho expected to start at the Bernabéu, Ancelotti’s men must rise to the occasion. Jude Bellingham, who will almost certainly start, will need to bring his signature grinta to the midfield. Defensively, the English midfielder will be especially vital.
For now, Federico Valverde’s situation remains uncertain, as Carlo Ancelotti has yet to decide whether he will start. Having picked up a knock and missed Monday night’s team training session, the Uruguayan will be monitored until Wednesday, when a decision must be made between him and Raúl Asensio, who could also play at right-back in Lucas Vázquez’s absence. Either way, if Valverde gets the nod, he is expected to give his all, as he always does.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, Valverde called for unity to overcome City. “The players and the fans must be united tomorrow to achieve our goal. We are changing our approach to the way we play. The first-leg result allows us to play with a bit more calmness because we have improved a lot.” The stage is set for a thrilling showdown on Wednesday.
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