Valverde Breaks Silence: I Won't Let My Role Define Me, Even If Alonso Rotates the Team

Valverde Breaks Silence on Role and the Alonso Dynamic

The Uruguayan star Federico Valverde quickly moved to address questions about his role at Real Madrid after coach Xabi Alonso left him on the bench in the Champions League victory over Kairat Almaty, a 5-0 result that signaled Madrid’s intent to rebound on Europe’s biggest stage.

Valverde did not shy away from clearing the air in a formal statement published on X, insisting there is no rift with his coach and reaffirming his full commitment to the club.

In the run-up to the match, he admitted in a press conference that he does not feel entirely comfortable playing as a right-back, a position he has filled at times but does not prefer.

Following the match, Valverde addressed the topic on his official X account, describing what he called a period of “deep sadness” while also denying any desire to withdraw or retreat from competition. He wrote that he has faced harsh criticism, but he refuses to hide or shy away from facing it head-on.

“I have given my best, I have played hurt, and I have never asked for rest,” he stated. He stressed that his relationship with Alonso remains positive and that he is always ready to contribute wherever needed, expressing pride in representing Real Madrid and a willingness to die for the team.

Valverde underscored that his loyalty to the club is unwavering and that his aim is to help the squad improve, even when the coach wants to distribute responsibilities across the squad to keep players fresh and effective.

Valverde also acknowledged some frustration with his recent performances, noting that he understands when things do not go as planned and that he will continue to work hard. He emphasized a leadership mindset, vowing to keep guiding the group and showing strength from the captain’s position, even if results have not been perfect.

On the topic of his position at right-back, he explained that he was not born to play there, but that he has done so multiple times and helped the team win the Champions League while contributing in different roles. He reiterated that he always remains available and never refuses to play, believing it is an honor to wear Real Madrid’s jersey and to fight for the club’s cause.

Historically, Valverde joined Real Madrid from Penarol in 2016, spent time on loan with Deportivo La Coruña, and has since established himself as a core player known for his physical and technical versatility. He has collected major trophies such as the Champions League, La Liga, and the Club World Cup, and he is viewed as a potential future leader for the club thanks to his discipline and character on and off the pitch.

On the pitch, Madrid did not appear unsettled by the ongoing talk. They produced a comprehensive victory at the Central Stadium, defeating the Kazakh hosts 5-0. Mbappe completed a hat-trick in the 25th minute from a penalty and again in the 52nd and 73rd minutes, with Camavinga adding a fourth in the 83rd and Diaz sealing the score in stoppage time (90+3).

The win followed a painful 5-2 derby defeat to Atlético Madrid, and it served as a cathartic response for the fans. The team looked more organized and efficient, suggesting a renewed focus under Alonso and a belief in Mbappe’s leadership in attack.

With this result, Madrid moved to six points in the group, strengthening their position as Alonso begins to imprint his tactical fingerprints. The performance also highlighted a broader message: Real Madrid is assembling a balanced squad capable of meeting today’s demands while laying the groundwork for the future.

As the season progresses, Madrid’s blend of veterans and emerging talents aims to underscore a resilient, collective identity—one that can endure criticism and still deliver on Europe’s biggest stage.

Punchline time: If patience were a position, Valverde would be a central defender—sturdy, reliable, and forever waiting for a pass that actually arrives on time. And if rotation were an Olympic sport, Alonso would probably win gold, silver, and the broadcast rights just to keep us guessing which XI will start next match. Still, at least Madrid looks like a team that can laugh together while chasing silverware.