Fede Valverde, the Real Madrid midfielder, has shared some insights into his early tension with coach Carlo Ancelotti. Despite being considered one of Ancelotti’s most loyal players, Valverde admitted that he was not always happy with being deployed on the right-hand side of the midfield.
During the 2021-22 season, Valverde often found himself playing out on the right, a position that was not unfamiliar to him. However, he eventually settled into this role as his primary position. He has also been moved around to different positions in the midfield throughout his career.
This season, Valverde continued to play on the right at times but also returned to his preferred central midfield position alongside Toni Kroos, where he delivered his best performances. Speaking about his positional changes during international duty, Valverde emphasized the importance of adapting to the coach’s instructions.
“I have come to appreciate the flexibility of playing in different positions. Initially, I was frustrated with having to change my role under Ancelotti. However, I learned to value the coach’s decisions and to grow as a player in various positions. It is essential to understand and make the most of any role assigned to you for the benefit of the team,” Valverde explained in an interview with La Quinta Tribuna.
Valverde also acknowledged the challenges of playing for Real Madrid and the importance of seizing every opportunity. With the departure of Toni Kroos and the addition of Kylian Mbappe to the squad, Valverde is optimistic about reclaiming his central midfield role. His dynamic playing style, characterized by energetic runs, has proven to be a valuable asset for Real Madrid, even when deployed in a more advanced position.
As Valverde continues to evolve as a player, his ability to adapt to different positions and contribute effectively to the team’s success will be crucial. Ancelotti’s guidance and the competition within the squad will push Valverde to further develop his skills and solidify his place in the starting lineup. Ultimately, Valverde’s versatility and commitment to the team’s objectives make him a key player for Real Madrid’s future success.