Real Madrid’s 5-0 win over FC Kairat should have been a night of celebration, but it was Fede Valverde’s emotional words that grabbed the headlines.
The club’s vice captain has spoken publicly after reports claimed there was growing tension between him and head coach Xabi Alonso.
The 27-year-old midfielder, often described as the heartbeat of Los Blancos, has been under scrutiny since he was left on the bench in Kazakhstan.
His body language during the game, along with footage of him warming up alone, fueled speculation that all was not well. Spanish media even suggested Valverde had refused to play in a defensive role.
But the Uruguayan has now broken his silence in a powerful statement (via X).
“I have read several articles damaging my reputation. 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. People can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play,” Valverde wrote.
He leído varios artículos dañando mi persona. Sé que he tenido partidos malos, soy consciente. No me escondo y doy la cara. Realmente estoy triste. De mí pueden decir muchas cosas, pero bajo ningún punto de vista pueden decir que me niego a jugar. He dado todo y más por este…
— Fede Valverde (@fedeevalverde) October 1, 2025
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A silent protest, or a misunderstanding?
Valverde went on to defend his record of commitment to the club. “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,” he insisted.
The midfielder also addressed rumors about his relationship with Alonso. “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.”
The controversy started after Alonso reportedly considered playing Valverde at right-back, with injuries leaving Real short in that position.
Instead, Valverde was benched, leaving many to wonder if his pre-match comments about not being “born to play right-back” had swayed the coach’s decision.
Despite the noise, Valverde vowed to keep fighting for Madrid’s shirt. “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.”
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