Headline: Real Madrid’s Federico Valverde Thrives as Midfielder Amid Manager Mourinho’s Strategic Shift
Real Madrid captain Federico Valverde has long been a key player for the team, consistently appearing on the lineup. However, his role has varied significantly, as he has seldom maintained a fixed position on the pitch. Over the years, Valverde has showcased his versatility, adapting to different playing styles as he has been deployed across several positions by various managers.
Recently, as reported by MARCA, new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho expressed a preference for Valverde’s position exclusively as a midfielder, particularly as a deep-lying midfielder. Mourinho values consistency in his lineup and is not inclined to utilize Valverde in varied roles.
The Uruguayan international has had a strong start to the current season, establishing himself in the team’s games alongside Bernardo Silva in a double pivot setup. His impressive performance includes three defensive actions, two recoveries, and one interception against Real Sociedad, where he also assisted Kylian Mbappe and recorded two shots on goal, all while achieving an impressive pass completion rate of 93%.
Mourinho’s strategy becomes more complex with the impending return of Aurelien Tchouameni. The French midfielder, who has been pivotal for the team, is expected to reclaim his position in the lineup, which may affect Valverde’s current standing as a first-choice midfielder.
The current season has provided Valverde with opportunities, particularly due to Tchouameni’s injury, allowing him to secure a higher position in Mourinho’s plans. As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how the manager will adjust his tactics once Tchouameni is back on the field.
As Real Madrid’s captain, Federico Valverde has been one of the first names on the team sheet for several years now. Yet, he has barely ever stayed fixated on a single position.
Despite being one of the team’s most important players over the years, the Uruguayan star has been used as a Swiss-knife by manager after manager who have all praised him for his versatility.
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As a result, he has played as a full-back, a defensive midfielder, an attacking midfielder and even a winger based on the requirement of the team.
Mourinho values consistency
As reported by MARCA, the new Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho is not a fan of Valverde being used all over the field. He sees the player as a midfielder and a midfielder only, specifically a deep-lying midfielder at that.
Valverde has started the season well. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
The player, after all, has started off the team’s games so far this season and has played as part of the double pivot on both nights alongside Bernardo Silva. He has enjoyed a strong start to the season, and his numbers speak volumes.
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Against Real Sociedad, the player made three defensive actions, two recoveries and one interception.
He was not dribbled past in the entire game, won two duels and completed 93% of his passes. Beyond his defensive numbers, he assisted Kylian Mbappe and had two shots on goal.
Tchouameni’s return will complicate matters
It is clear at this point that Mourinho sees Valverde only as a midfielder, especially since he now has convincing options at full-back and on the right wing.
How will Mourinho incorporate Tchouameni? (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
The central midfield is where the manager sees the player’s output to be the highest.
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Part of the reason why Valverde has had a non-turbulent start to the season, however, is the injury Aurelien Tchouameni is suffering from.
The Frenchman has been the club’s de facto pivot player for a long time now and was expected to be the manager’s preferred option to partner Silva in the double pivot.
His absence helped the Uruguayan earn Mourinho’s favour and move up the pecking order. Tchouameni’s return, however, is not far off and it remains to be seen how the selection changes after he is back in action.
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