Valverde defies labels: ready to play right-back and defiantly loyal to Real Madrid

Valverde’s Versatility Under Pressure

The Uruguayan star Federico Valverde of Real Madrid says he has never refused to play as a right-back and would die for Real Madrid. The team endured two hard days after the heavy derby defeat to Atlético Madrid.

Europa Challenge and Domestic Rebound

Madrid travels to face Kairat Almaty of Kazakhstan on Tuesday for the second match of the Champions League group stage.

Madrid seeks to make amends after the 5-2 loss to Atlético Madrid in La Liga’s seventh round, aiming to reset ahead of European duties.

In the press conference, Valverde said, “We enter this match trying to change what happened against Atlético and bring a different spirit with a win. The reception was amazing; many Real Madrid fans were waiting for us, it was crazy.”

Addressing rumors about not wanting to play right-back, he stated, “If I said that, people would think I’m lying. Ask the coach. I’ve always said I’m available for the team, I never refused to play anywhere, and I always give my best wherever I am—Be it with Ancelotti, with Zidane, or with Xabi.”

It’s anticipated that Valverde will feature at right-back in the near future due to injuries to Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold; the Uruguayan has previously played in this position.

He added, “I’ve always spoken my mind: a starting player should grab the opportunity as if it were the last; I’ve never refused this role, it’s rare but an honor to wear Real Madrid’s shirt. You can ask my teammates or the coach: I’m always available for the team and I’ll die for Real Madrid.”

On the loss to Atlético, he said, “It’s been two very hard days; we were very upset by the defeat and it stung. We spoke a lot. Since I joined Real Madrid, this doesn’t happen often; there were many discussions, and tomorrow is the start to change all that.”

Valverde stressed there are no doubts about the team or the coach. “We’ve played many games, but we didn’t have enough time with Xabi; we must give 100% until problems are resolved,” he remarked.

He also noted that the two tough losses with Xabi were challenging, but part of football, and that staying united on and off the pitch is key to a good year ahead.

“I feel a bit frustrated; I know my style well and when things aren’t going my way, I’m the first to notice. The players know when they’re underperforming.”

Valverde continued, “Yes, I started well in the World Cup project; I think I played well there. Now, feeling comfortable on the pitch is harder, but I’ll keep working. As a leader, I’ll keep guiding the team and giving my all.”

When asked about not playing as a winger, he replied, “Ultimately you hear criticisms, but it’s nice to be praised. I wasn’t born to be a full-back, I grew up playing there; there were tough moments when the team needed me, and I’m proud to have delivered. I’ve wondered if those moments were just a passing phase.”

Valverde added, “I’ve felt comfortable at right-back and we’ve won a lot when I’ve played as a winger; we won the Champions League, and I’m here again in midfield.”

“I’m always available, and I learn the new position when needed. I don’t feel fully comfortable because I didn’t grow up there, and there are defensive duties that challenge me, but I try to show consistency and that’s why things are going well for me there.”

“I was formed in midfield and learned a lot from many players, but I’ve done well at full-back, and I’m here for whatever the coach needs.”

On Kairat, he said, “We watched many clips of Kairat, but what matters most is growing as a team and focusing on ourselves—that comes first.”

Madrid’s group in the Champions League includes Marseille, Monaco, Kairat Almaty, Olympiakos, Benfica, Juventus, Manchester City, and Liverpool. Real Madrid beat Marseille 2-1 in the first round.

Punchlines for the road: If football were a kitchen, Valverde would be a versatile chef—whipping up goals, defense, and a dash of chaos. And if patience were a position, his critics would be fighting for the right-back spot beside him.