Xabi Alonso Draws Bold Steven Gerrard Comparison for Versatile Real Madrid Star
Following just two matches as Real Madrid's manager, Xabi Alonso has drawn parallels between Fede Valverde and Liverpool icon Steven Gerrard.
Though Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham capture much of the attention at Real Madrid, Valverde continues to be the squad's most reliable and adaptable performer. The Uruguayan midfielder concluded the 2024–25 campaign with a club-leading 59 appearances in all tournaments, accumulating more than 5,000 minutes of playing time
Valverde maintained his demanding schedule through the summer period, becoming among the few Real Madrid stars to complete the full 180 minutes in the team's opening two FIFA Club World Cup matches. Despite facing sweltering conditions in both Miami and Charlotte, the 26-year-old has only paused for mandatory hydration intervals.
Alonso expressed his admiration for his new squad member after Real Madrid's 3–1 triumph against Pachuca.
"I've rarely encountered players with such exceptional physical capabilities. [Valverde] brings to mind someone like Steven Gerrard," Alonso remarked.
This comparison carries significant weight from the Spanish coach, who shared the pitch with Gerrard for five seasons at Liverpool. The midfield duo guided the Reds to Champions League success in 2005, overturning a 3–0 deficit against AC Milan to ultimately prevail over the Italian side in a dramatic penalty shootout.
While Alonso eventually departed Merseyside for Real Madrid, Gerrard remained loyal to Liverpool throughout almost his entire playing career. The former England skipper devoted himself completely to his hometown club, amassing over 470 appearances during his 17-year tenure with Liverpool.
"He's capable of performing in any position, and I'm delighted to be working with him. Every manager would want a Valverde in their squad," Alonso added.
Although primarily a central midfielder, Valverde has been utilized in various positions throughout his Real Madrid career. The 26-year-old was even required to fill in at right-back last season and most recently started on the right flank against Pachuca. He managed to score during that encounter at Bank of America Stadium.
"He erased the disappointment from his penalty miss the other day with today's performance, and his passion was clear in how he celebrated," Alonso observed.
Valverde was unable to score from the penalty spot against Al Hilal, denying Real Madrid victory in their FIFA Club World Cup opening fixture. However, the former Real Madrid Castilla graduate redeemed himself with his outstanding display against Pachuca.