Real Madrid star hits out at ‘DAMAGING’ claims in official statement

Real Madrid vice-captain Federico Valverde has issued an official statement denying claims that he has told head coach Xabi Alonso he won’t play in certain positions.

The 27-year-old has been in the headlines in Spain in recent weeks due to some disappointing outings. A player celebrated for his versatility, Valverde has recently struggled to recapture his previous form.

The Uruguay international is a midfielder by trade, but has often been forced to play out of position, primarily at full-back. His recent performances, particularly when it comes to the defensive side of the game and even when playing in midfield, have faced intense scrutiny.

This scrutiny has given rise to some slanderous claims in the press that Valverde has told Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso that he will refuse to play at full-back going forward.

These reports surfaced after Real Madrid were comprehensively defeated by Atletico Madrid in a historic 5-2 derby clash on Saturday. After the game, Valverde admitted that he is no longer as ‘comfortable’ defending as he previously was, but he dismissed claims that he is refusing to play as fake news.

Valverde issues official statement

Even after Real Madrid bounced back with a 5-0 thrashing of Kairat in the Champions League on Tuesday, the topic still seems to be gnawing at Valverde’s conscience.

Perhaps aware that his lack of action against the Kazakh outfit, which was entirely due to rotation, could fuel the rumour mill, the 27-year-old has now issued an official statement, condemning the ‘damaging’ claims.

“I have read several articles damaging my reputation,” Valverde wrote on X. “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. 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.

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

“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.”

Football transfer news headlines today

TRANSFER RUMOURS: Mainoo decision as Man Utd battle Chelsea over €100m star

Arsenal to SACK Mikel Arteta if…

Mainoo ‘agrees’ to January Serie A transfer, confirms Fabrizio Romano

Juventus working to prevent Yildiz to Chelsea move – Fabrizio Romano

The FootballTransfers app

Check out FootballTransfers’ new app for all of football’s big storylines, transfer rumours and exclusive news in one convenient place directly on your mobile device.

The FootballTransfers app is available on Google Play and in the Apple App Store. Download here:

•Google Play

•App Store