Fede Valverde Responds to Criticism With Emotional Statement at Real Madrid

In an unprecedented move, one of the club’s most loyal servants has been forced to publicly defend his commitment and character. The Uruguayan midfielder took to social media with a heartfelt statement that has laid bare the emotional toll of recent controversies surrounding his role under new management.

The Statement That Changed Everything

The 27-year-old vice-captain released an emotional statement on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday evening, directly addressing rumors and criticism that had been building throughout the week. His words were raw, honest, and revealed a side of the usually composed midfielder that fans rarely see.

“I have read several articles damaging my reputation,” the statement began. “I know I’ve had bad games, I’m aware of it. I’m not hiding, and I face the criticism head-on. I’m truly sad.”

Full Statement Breakdown

The midfielder continued: “People can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play. I have given everything and more for this club, I’ve played while fractured, injured, and I’ve never complained or asked for a break.”

The Controversy That Sparked The Response

The controversy began in the most unexpected way. During a pre-match press conference ahead of the Champions League fixture against FC Kairat Almaty, the midfielder made candid comments about playing as a right-back, a position he had been asked to fill due to injuries to Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

“I wasn’t born to play as a full-back,” he explained during the press conference. “I didn’t grow up learning to play as a full-back. When I played there, I was proud to have done well, but I always had doubts about whether I played well spontaneously.”

These comments, while honest, sparked immediate speculation in the Spanish media about potential friction with manager Xabi Alonso. The situation escalated dramatically when the midfielder was surprisingly left on the bench for the entire match against Kairat, despite having participated in the pre-match media duties—typically a sign that a player will feature.

The Silent Protest

What happened next captured headlines across Europe. During the match, cameras caught the Uruguayan displaying body language that suggested frustration:

• He was the only substitute who did not participate in the pre-match warm-up
• He sat isolated on the bench during the game
• When asked to warm up in the second half, he stood motionless on the touchline with his hands clasped behind his back
• He appeared to avoid group drills and warm-up exercises with fellow substitutes Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham

Spanish media outlet Marca reported that his demeanor was unprecedented for a player known for his professionalism and commitment. Journalist Roberto Gómez even suggested on Radio Marca that “Alonso was very vindictive with what he did to Valverde.”

Alonso’s Response and the Managerial Perspective

Following the match, Xabi Alonso addressed the situation in his post-match press conference, attempting to downplay any suggestion of conflict. The Spanish manager insisted there was no problem and that the midfielder’s omission was simply due to load management.

“It was a decision that was made before the press conference,” Alonso explained. “He is always willing to play wherever he’s needed. He’s very generous and willing. If the game had required it, he’d have played.”

The manager continued: “The game was decided in the second half, and we have to pace our efforts because both he and Álvaro Carreras were seeing a lot of big loads in previous games.”

Real Madrid’s Current Situation

The context surrounding this controversy cannot be ignored. Real Madrid suffered a humiliating 5-2 defeat to Atletico Madrid just days before the Kairat match, a result that sent shockwaves through the club. The Uruguayan midfielder was particularly culpable in that defeat, losing possession in stoppage time which led to Antoine Griezmann scoring the fifth goal.

Self-Assessment and Leadership

Prior to the controversy, the vice-captain had already been remarkably candid about his struggles this season. In interviews before the Kairat match, he displayed the kind of self-awareness that has made him such a respected figure in the dressing room.

“I’m a little frustrated,” he admitted. “I’m aware of how I’m playing; I’m the first to know when things aren’t going my way. Players know firsthand if they’re having a bad game. It’s true that I started well in the new project, at the Club World Cup; I think I played well there. Now it’s much harder for me to feel comfortable on the pitch.”

Despite his struggles, he emphasized his commitment to leadership: “As captain, I’ll continue to lead the group and show my mettle when I play. I’ll keep standing out and moving forward.”

Performance Analysis 2025-26 Season

The numbers paint a picture of a player who is contributing in some areas but failing to make the decisive impact that has defined his career. With zero goals this season compared to his 12-goal haul in the 2022-23 campaign, the drop-off has been noticeable.

The Positional Dilemma

At the heart of this controversy lies a fundamental question about player versatility versus specialist roles. Under Carlo Ancelotti, the Uruguayan had thrived as a utility player, excelling in multiple positions including right-back when emergencies demanded it. He helped win two Champions League titles while playing in various roles.

However, under Xabi Alonso’s system, there appears to be a desire for more positional clarity. The manager has primarily used him in central midfield, but injuries to both first-choice right-backs have created a crisis that demands flexibility—the very quality that once defined the player’s value.

The midfielder himself acknowledged this complexity: “I don’t feel comfortable because I didn’t grow up playing there. I struggle with things, like closing down in defense. But I try to show attitude, and that’s why things go well for me there. I grew up in the middle; I learned a lot there from many players.”

Defending His Character

The most powerful element of the social media statement was the Uruguayan’s passionate defense of his character and commitment. This went beyond tactical discussions or positional preferences—this was about his reputation and legacy.

“I have a good relationship with the coach, which makes me feel confident enough to tell him which position I prefer on the pitch, but I always, always made it clear that I’m available to perform anywhere, on any trip, and in every game,” he wrote.

He continued with perhaps the most poignant part of his statement: “I’ve left my heart and soul in this club and I will continue to do so, even if sometimes it’s not enough or I’m not playing as I’d like. I swear on my pride that I will never give up and will fight until the end, playing wherever I’m needed.”

The Broader Context at Madrid

This situation reflects broader challenges facing Real Madrid under new management. Xabi Alonso arrived from Bayer Leverkusen with a reputation for tactical discipline and rotation, having led his previous club to remarkable success. However, managing major egos at the Bernabéu presents different challenges.

Rodrygo Goes has become increasingly familiar with the bench, Vinícius Júnior has seen his position questioned, and now one of the club’s most reliable players finds himself at the center of controversy. The adjustment period is proving difficult for players accustomed to different management styles.

Teammate Fran García offered his support after the Kairat match: “Knowing Fede, I’m sure it bothers him. He always wants to be on the front line.”

The Road Ahead

The immediate future will test both player and manager. Real Madrid face Villarreal this weekend before another international break, followed by a crucial El Clásico clash with Barcelona on October 26th. How Alonso handles the situation—and whether the midfielder returns to the starting lineup—will be closely scrutinized.

For a player who has won four La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies with the club, who has played through fractures and injuries without complaint, and who was recently promoted to vice-captain, this public controversy represents uncharted territory. His contract runs until 2029, making him a key figure in the club’s long-term plans.

The statement has achieved its immediate goal: clarifying that he never refused to play and reaffirming his commitment to the club. However, the underlying issues—his current form, positional preferences, and the evolving dynamics under new management—remain to be fully resolved.

What is clear is that one of Real Madrid’s most dedicated servants felt compelled to publicly defend his reputation, revealing the immense pressure and scrutiny that comes with wearing the famous white shirt. As he concluded in his statement, he will continue fighting for the badge, regardless of position or circumstance—a promise that has defined his entire career at the Santiago Bernabéu.

Read More: Griezmann Makes History as First Player to Score 200 Goals for Atlético Madrid

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