Key Takeaways:
- Valverde’s conduct on the bench and during warm-ups prompted speculation about his relationship with manager Xabi Alonso
- Fede Valverde responded on social media less than 24 hours after Real Madrid’s 5-0 victory over Kairat Almaty on Tuesday evening
- The Uruguayan midfielder disputed claims that he had refused to play at right-back and asserted his commitment to the club
Background to Recent Controversy
Following Real Madrid’s emphatic 5-0 win against Kairat Almaty on Tuesday evening, vice-captain Fede Valverde found himself at the centre of speculation regarding his relationship with head coach Xabi Alonso. The 26-year-old appeared dejected on the bench, sparking rumours of a potential rift with management.
Prior to the match, Valverde had expressed a strong preference for playing in midfield over right-back. Despite his comments and expectations that he would feature in midfield against the Kazakh side, he began the match as a substitute. Observers noted that when asked to warm up, Valverde stood with his arms folded behind his back and watched the game instead.
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
Valverde’s Direct Response on Social Media
Reacting to the growing speculation, Valverde issued a statement on Twitter/X less than 24 hours after the match, addressing the reports and reaffirming his loyalty to the club. He wrote:
“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. 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 pitch, 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.”
Timeline of Match Events and Subsequent Reports
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Pre-match comments | Valverde indicates preference for midfield role |
| Starting XI announcement | Valverde named among substitutes for match against Kairat Almaty |
| Behaviour during warm-ups | Valverde seen remaining with arms behind back instead of warming up with Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham |
| Post-match speculation | Reports emerge alleging refusal to play at right-back; other claims suggest Xabi Alonso was displeased by Valverde’s prior comments |
| Social media response | Valverde publishes statement rejecting claims and asserting ongoing commitment to the club |
Analysis of the Dispute
The primary claims circulated after the match alleged that Valverde had declined to play as a right-back, something he explicitly refuted before the game. Additional commentary suggested that manager Xabi Alonso may have been sending Valverde a message by excluding him from the starting line-up, expressing dissatisfaction with his remarks to the media.
Although Valverde has denied any refusal to perform in a specific position, his actions in the lead-up to and during the match, particularly his lack of participation in warm-ups alongside fellow substitutes, have left questions about dynamics within the squad.
