Fede Valverde Fires Back at Xabi Alonso Over Reputation-Damaging Snub
Following speculation that Fede Valverde "declined to feature" at right-back during the match against Kairat, the Real Madrid central midfielder responded forcefully on social media, asserting he would perform "anywhere" Xabi Alonso requires.
Real Madrid find themselves once more lacking a fit senior right-back. With both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal sidelined through injury, Alonso has been compelled to adapt his approach on the right side.
Valverde, who was anticipated to return to his makeshift defensive role from the previous campaign, openly expressed his preference to stay in central midfield, revealing he does "not relish" operating at right-back. Subsequently, Alonso left him out of Real Madrid's commanding 5–0 triumph over Kairat.
This choice sparked conjecture among supporters and Spanish media that Valverde's remarks resulted in his exclusion from Los Blancos' starting lineup. Certain reports even suggested the Uruguayan declined to feature at Central Stadium.
Within 24 hours, Valverde clarified the situation through an extensive social media post.
Valverde Demonstrates Commitment to Real Madrid
"I have encountered numerous articles harming my standing," Valverde shared on X. "I acknowledge I've delivered poor performances, I'm conscious of this. I'm not concealing myself, and I confront the criticism directly.
"I'm genuinely disappointed. People may express various opinions about me, but they absolutely cannot claim that I decline to participate. I have contributed everything and beyond for this institution, I've competed while suffering fractures, carrying injuries, and I've never protested or requested rest.
"I maintain a positive rapport with the manager, which allows me to feel comfortable expressing my preferred position on the pitch, but I consistently, always emphasized that I'm prepared to contribute anywhere, on any journey, and in every match.
"I've invested my heart and spirit in this club and will persist in doing so, even when sometimes it's insufficient or I'm not performing as I desire. I pledge on my honor that I will never surrender and will battle until the conclusion, featuring wherever I'm required."
Alonso Explains Notable Valverde Choice
Following Real Madrid's Champions League success, Alonso provided perspective on Valverde's limited involvement on Tuesday night.
"This is a choice I've taken," Alonso stated during his post-game media briefing. "Fede remains constantly prepared. Always maintaining positive spirits.
"Had the match demanded it, he would have featured. Similar to [Álvaro] Carreras. However, you must manage workload. You must understand proper rotation."
Alonso's decision followed a heavy Madrid derby loss where both Valverde and Carreras encountered difficulties. Both players remained unused substitutes throughout Los Blancos' subsequent fixture.
Focus will center on Alonso to determine whether he reinstates Valverde and Carreras to his starting eleven when Real Madrid face third-positioned Villarreal in their final fixture before the October international window.