Federico Valverde

Real Madrid continued their pre-season preparations with a dominant 4-1 victory over Leganés, a Spanish second division side, in a training match on Tuesday. The goals came from Federico Valverde, Gonzalo García, Franco Mastantuono, and an own goal. The match took place three weeks before the return of La Liga and ahead of a friendly against Fiorentina scheduled for Saturday at 6:00 PM. The article, published on July 29, 2026, by L'Équipe, highlights Real Madrid's strong form as they gear up for the upcoming season.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 29, 06:16 AM UTC

Real Madrid plays their second preseason friendly against Leganés at the Di Stéfano stadium, with Federico Valverde making his first appearance of the preseason and debuting as first captain following Carvajal's departure. The match follows the same format as the first friendly: the first 20 minutes will be broadcast, followed by a media blackout. Expected lineup includes Lunin in goal, a defense of Trent, Asencio, Huijsen, and Carreras, with Camavinga and Valverde in midfield. Dutch defender Dumfries is in Madrid and will train but is not ready to play. The match kicks off at 18:00 CEST behind closed doors from the 20th minute onward.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 27, 11:40 PM UTC

Real Madrid, under manager José Mourinho, won a training match against a third-tier team with a 1-0 scoreline, the only goal scored by 19-year-old Daniel Yáñez. The first 25 minutes of the match were open to media. The article also reports that Michael Olise is increasingly convinced to join Real Madrid, partly due to Kylian Mbappé's behind-the-scenes efforts, potentially forming a French national team duo in Madrid. Additionally, Real Madrid is close to an agreement with midfielder Rodri, though a final 'handshake' with Manchester City is still pending. Mourinho is reportedly still deciding on five spots in the starting eleven, and Federico Valverde has received the captain's armband, praising Mourinho. The article also features an interview with Jorge Casado, who credits Mourinho for his debut.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 24, 06:21 PM UTC

The Fútbol de Primera expert panel analyzed Real Madrid's potential lineup for the upcoming 2026-27 season, focusing on whether Manchester City midfielder Rodri would be the final piece to complete Xabi Alonso's squad. The analysts debated how the Spanish Ballon d'Or winner's balance, ball recovery, and clean distribution could transform Real Madrid into a practically perfect team capable of competing for LaLiga, the UEFA Champions League, and all other titles. The midfield area remains the only sector generating debate, with current players like Jude Bellingham, Federico Valverde, Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler already providing abundant talent. The discussion centers on whether Rodri's experience, leadership, and game tempo control would be the ideal addition to a team already considered one of the great favorites in Spain and Europe.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 23, 12:02 AM UTC

Federico Valverde, on his 28th birthday, completed his first training session under Real Madrid's new coaching staff led by José Mourinho. The Uruguayan international, whose leadership was questioned after incidents with Tchouaméni and Marcelo Bielsa during the 2026 World Cup, has been given the captain's armband by Mourinho. In statements to club channels, Valverde expressed 'great emotion' and 'pride' at the honor. He praised Mourinho as a 'special person' and vowed to learn from him, making the most of every training moment. Valverde also thanked former captains Dani Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric, and Lucas Vázquez for their guidance. He expressed hope that the 2026/27 season will be 'beautiful' for Real Madrid and pledged to give his best both on and off the field to ensure teammates feel comfortable.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 04:24 PM UTC

Federico Valverde, upon returning to Real Madrid for pre-season training, expressed his eagerness to work under new manager José Mourinho, calling him a special person from whom he can learn a lot. Valverde also spoke about the honor of being named the club's first captain for the first time, reflecting on the good and difficult moments that led to this milestone. He thanked senior teammates including Carvajal, Ramos, Kroos, Modric, and Vázquez for helping him mature as a person, player, and leader. Looking ahead to the new season, Valverde stated that the team's primary goal is to win trophies and make Real Madrid fans proud. The interview was conducted on his birthday, adding to his excitement about the upcoming campaign.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 01:49 PM UTC

Federico Valverde has ended his 24-day vacation and reported back to Real Madrid's training base, becoming the second key player to return after Arda Güler. Valverde's early return follows Uruguay's disappointing World Cup exit in the group stage. Manager José Mourinho now has 10 first-team players available for training, including Lunin, Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen, Camavinga, and Valverde himself. Most World Cup knockout-stage participants remain on vacation, so youth academy players supplement the sessions. Valverde has also been officially named Real Madrid's first captain following Dani Carvajal's departure, with Vinícius Júnior, Thibaut Courtois, and Rodrygo as subsequent captains.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 01:31 PM UTC

The article analyzes the challenges facing José Mourinho as he rebuilds Real Madrid during an atypical summer disrupted by the World Cup. Key players will not be available until late August, limiting time to implement tactical and pressing concepts. The squad has been heavily reinforced, particularly in defense with Cucurella, Konaté, and Dumfries, and in attack with Bernardo Silva. Mourinho is expected to favor a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Bellingham behind Mbappé, Valverde alongside Tchouameni, and Güler as a potential right interior. The coach must also decide whether further market additions are needed after assessing squad deficiencies. With only a month before official competition begins, the pressure is on to establish a coherent game idea and competitive lineup.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 10:06 AM UTC

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has returned to training after 24 days of vacation, following Uruguay's early elimination from the 2026 World Cup in the group stage. He underwent a medical examination and trained under new manager José Mourinho at Valdebebas. Valverde has been named the club's first captain for the upcoming season, succeeding Dani Carvajal. The squad now has ten first-team players available: Lunin, Trent, Huijsen, Asencio, Carreras, Valverde, Güler, Camavinga, Mastantuono, and Gonzalo. In comments to Real Madrid TV, Valverde expressed eagerness to learn from Mourinho and grow as a player. The article notes that World Cup players are returning gradually based on when their teams were eliminated.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:34 AM UTC

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has returned to work at the club's Valdebebas training facility, joining the squad for preseason preparations ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Uruguayan international, who captained his national team at the recent World Cup, underwent a medical check-up at Ciudad Real Madrid in the morning before greeting manager Jose Mourinho and participating in his first training session. Valverde's return marks a significant boost for Mourinho, who now has a key 'new signing' available as the team builds toward the upcoming campaign. The article, published by AS on July 22, 2026, highlights the player's integration back into the squad after international duty.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 22, 08:34 AM UTC

This opinion piece analyzes the uncertain future of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes following a serious knee ligament rupture that required four months of recovery. The article notes that even if he shortens his recovery timeline, he will not be able to demonstrate his value to new coach José Mourinho until the second half of the season. By then, Mourinho is expected to have his preferred lineup established. Rodrygo faces intense competition for playing time, particularly on the right wing where Federico Valverde, Mastantuono, and new signing Bernardo Silva can play, while Mbappé, Vinicius, and Bellingham are expected to lead the attack. The article also mentions that before his injury, Rodrygo had attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, and his physical condition will determine whether he stays at Real Madrid or seeks an exit when his contract enters its final year.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:41 PM UTC

This opinion piece analyzes the uncertain future of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo Goes following a severe knee ligament rupture that required four months of recovery. The author notes that even if Rodrygo returns early, he will not be able to demonstrate his value until the second half of the season, by which time new coach José Mourinho is expected to have established his preferred lineup. Rodrygo faces intense competition for playing time on the right wing from Valverde, Mastantuono, and newly signed Bernardo Silva, as well as from Mbappé, Vinicius, and Bellingham near the box. The article also mentions that before his injury, Rodrygo had attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. The author concludes that Rodrygo's physical recovery will determine whether he stays at Real Madrid or seeks a move when his contract enters its final year.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 01:41 PM UTC

Japanese football website 'football channel' has selected the most disappointing 11-man lineup from the recently concluded USA-Canada-Mexico World Cup. The list includes high-profile stars Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal) and Son Heung-min (South Korea), alongside Takefusa Kubo (Japan). The website criticized Ronaldo's lack of accuracy and speed, noting his failure to impact Portugal's crucial match against Spain. Son Heung-min was highlighted for failing to meet expectations, with poor shooting statistics and early substitution in key group stage matches, contributing to South Korea's group stage elimination. The lineup also features midfielders Federico Valverde, Aleksandar Pavlovic, and Bruno Fernandes, defenders Lucas Digne, Josko Gvardiol, Kalidou Koulibaly, and Danilo, and goalkeeper Fernando Muslera.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 21, 05:48 AM UTC

Arda Güler has joined Real Madrid's preseason training under new manager José Mourinho, becoming the first World Cup participant to return to Valdebebas. The Turkish midfielder is a player Mourinho has shown significant interest in, having previously tried to loan him at Fenerbahçe. Güler's strong connection with Kylian Mbappé last season (8 assists to the French striker) is noted as a key asset. However, competition for starting spots is intense: Bernardo Silva's arrival makes the attacking midfield position more expensive, and Güler may also compete with Federico Valverde for the right flank. The article describes this as a decisive year for Güler, with Mourinho planning to use him in a 4-2-3-1 formation alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni. Valverde and Antonio Rüdiger are expected to return later this week.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 20, 11:17 AM UTC

Real Madrid's pre-season has started without many regular starters who are at the World Cup. Coach José Mourinho is already composing his starting eleven for the upcoming season, facing early selection dilemmas. The club has made four new signings: Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva, increasing competition. According to AS, six players are guaranteed starters: Mbappé, Vinicius, Bellingham, Valverde, Cucurella, and Courtois. Key battles include right-back between Dumfries and Alexander-Arnold, with Dumfries having an early advantage due to physicality and work rate. Central defense is crowded with Konaté, Huijsen, Militao, Rüdiger, and Asensio. In midfield, Bernardo Silva may join Bellingham, Valverde, and Tchouameni, while Camavinga is encouraged to find a new club. The right-wing spot remains open after Rodrygo's injury, with Güler, Diaz, and Mastantuono competing, and Michael Olise linked as a potential solution.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:02 PM UTC

According to Marca, Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has six starting positions virtually secured for the upcoming season: goalkeeper Courtois, left-back Cucurella, midfielders Bellingham and Valverde, left winger Vinícius Júnior, and striker Mbappé. However, five positions remain undecided. At right-back, new signing Denzel Dumfries competes with Trent Alexander-Arnold. In central defense, Ibrahima Konaté leads a group including Huijsen, Rüdiger, Militão, and Asencio. In midfield, Bernardo Silva arrives on a free transfer but faces competition from Tchouaméni, Camavinga, and Thiago Pitarch. On the right wing, Mourinho dreams of Michael Olise, but Bayern Munich is reluctant to sell; Arda Güler and Brahim Díaz are the current internal options, while Rodrygo is injured until early next year.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 11:51 AM UTC

José Mourinho, returning as Real Madrid coach, faces significant lineup uncertainties ahead of a crucial season. Five starting positions lack clear owners due to new signings including Cucurella, Konaté, Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva, which increase internal competition. The preseason will be used to define the starting eleven. Core secured players include Mbappé, Vinicius, Bellingham, Valverde, Cucurella, and Courtois. At right-back, Dumfries' signing complicates Trent Alexander-Arnold's starting role, as Dumfries better fits Mourinho's defensive demands. Center-back competition involves five candidates: Konaté, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Militao, and youth player Asencio, with physical condition concerns for Rüdiger and Militao. In midfield, Bernardo Silva's arrival aims to solve creativity issues, competing for spots alongside other candidates. The article analyzes positional battles at right-back, center-back, central midfield, and right wing.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:03 AM UTC

José Mourinho, returning as Real Madrid coach, faces difficult decisions ahead of a key season. Up to five starting positions lack clear owners, with new signings Cucurella, Konaté, Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva intensifying competition. While Mbappé, Vinicius, Bellingham, Valverde, Cucurella, and Courtois are considered core starters, fierce battles remain at right-back (Dumfries vs. Trent), center-back (Konaté, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Militao, Asencio), central midfield, and right wing. The article analyzes each position's contenders, noting Dumfries' defensive fit for Mourinho's system versus Trent's offensive quality, and the center-back pairing headache with five candidates including injury-prone veterans Rüdiger and Militao. Bernardo Silva's arrival aims to solve midfield creativity issues. Preseason will be crucial for Mourinho to define his starting eleven before competition begins.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:03 AM UTC

José Mourinho, returning as Real Madrid coach, faces significant uncertainty over five starting lineup positions before the 2026-27 season. New signings Cucurella, Konaté, Dumfries, and Bernardo Silva intensify competition. The core secured players include Mbappé, Vinicius, Bellingham, Valverde, Cucurella, and Courtois. Key battles emerge at right-back between Trent Alexander-Arnold and new signing Denzel Dumfries, with the Dutchman's defensive traits better suiting Mourinho's demands. Center-back pairing remains unresolved among Konaté, Huijsen, Rüdiger, Militao, and youth player Asencio, with fitness concerns for the latter two. Midfield competition increases with Bernardo Silva's arrival, who can play both as a winger and in midfield. The preseason will be crucial for Mourinho to finalize his starting eleven before competitive matches begin.

1 reports · 1 sources · Updated Jul 18, 04:03 AM UTC

According to AS, Real Madrid has confirmed a new captaincy order for the 2026-27 season following Carvajal's departure. Federico Valverde is promoted to first captain, with Vinicius Junior as second, Thibaut Courtois as third, and Rodrygo as fourth. The order follows Real Madrid's tradition of seniority, with Valverde joining in 2016 and Vinicius and Courtois both arriving in 2018. The article notes that both Valverde and Vinicius faced criticism last season due to conflicts with former coach Xabi Alonso, yet they now lead the dressing room. Mourinho, returning as coach, has begun preparations and met with the captains. The club also adjusted the order to favor outfield players over goalkeepers for referee communication. Valverde's journey from Castilla to captain is highlighted, along with his past controversies and Mourinho's confidence in his leadership qualities.

1 reports · 1 sources

Internal tensions at Real Madrid have intensified under manager Alvaro Arbeloa, following reports of a physical altercation between players Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde. New revelations highlight Arbeloa's confrontational management style, specifically his treatment of left-back Fran Garcia. Upon taking charge in January, Arbeloa allegedly told Garcia he would not play a single minute under his leadership, despite a potential transfer to Bournemouth being blocked by the club. Although Garcia has recently gained playing time due to injuries and conflicts involving other players, the atmosphere remains volatile. Arbeloa also reportedly clashed with Alvaro Carreras, telling him to get a coaching license after questioning tactical decisions. Further run-ins with key figures like Dani Carvajal, Dani Ceballos, Raul Asencio, and Kylian Mbappe have raised concerns about squad stability. These incidents suggest a deteriorating relationship between the coach and the dressing room, marking a turbulent period for the club since Arbeloa replaced Xabi Alonso. The report underscores growing scrutiny of Arbeloa's ability to manage high-profile personalities within the team.

1 reports · 1 sources

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has returned to light training sessions following a brief absence caused by a head injury sustained during a heated argument with teammate Aurélien Tchouameni. The incident, which occurred amidst a turbulent season for the club, reportedly involved a physical confrontation where Valverde slipped and hit his head on a table. Although the injury required hospital visits as a precaution, Valverde rejoined the squad under the supervision of the medical department, performing only light exercises. He is not expected to feature in the upcoming match against Sevilla. This event highlights growing internal tensions within the Real Madrid locker room, described as 'completely broken' after a title-less season. The article also notes another recent conflict involving Kylian Mbappé and coach Álvaro Arbeloa, suggesting a pattern of discord among key figures in the team. The report comes from Argentine sports outlet Olé, detailing the specifics of the altercation and the current fragile state of the team's dynamics as the season winds down.

1 reports · 1 sources

Real Madrid is preparing to implement drastic measures to restore discipline and control within its fractured dressing room following a series of escalating internal conflicts. Recent incidents include a physical altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni, which resulted in hospitalization, and ongoing verbal disputes between star forward Kylian Mbappe and interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa. The club administration, led by president Florentino Perez, views the current lack of leadership and unity as a critical issue undermining the team's competitive identity. To address this, Perez is scheduled to hold a direct face-to-face meeting with Mbappe to resolve recent controversies. Furthermore, reports indicate that Jose Mourinho is the overwhelming favorite to replace the current management, tasked with reinstating authority and structure. The board emphasizes that restoring hierarchy, discipline, and collective commitment is the immediate priority, signaling that difficult decisions regarding player and staff roles may be imminent to stabilize the squad for the remainder of the season.

1 reports · 1 sources

This opinion piece critiques Real Madrid president Florentino Perez's decision to rehire Jose Mourinho, characterizing it as a symptom of the club's deepening chaos and Perez's detachment from reality. The article outlines a turbulent 2025/26 season where Real Madrid finished trophyless following the brief and unsuccessful tenure of Xabi Alonso, who resigned after just half a season. His successor, Alvaro Arbeloa, has failed to restore order, leading to disintegrated squad discipline marked by a training-ground fight between Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni. Additionally, star signing Kylian Mbappe faces intense backlash from fans despite his goal-scoring record. The author highlights Perez's recent bizarre press conference, where he refused to resign and vowed to fight perceived enemies, as evidence of his erratic leadership. The potential return of Mourinho, thirteen years after his previous stint, is portrayed as a desperate and contradictory move that ignores the underlying structural issues. The article argues that hiring Mourinho is akin to an arsonist managing a match factory, suggesting that Perez is repeating past mistakes rather than addressing the root causes of the club's sporting and cultural decline.

1 reports · 1 sources

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has returned to partial training following a head injury sustained during a locker room altercation with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni. The incident, which occurred last week, resulted in Valverde hitting his head on a table, causing dizziness and requiring stitches. Club medical staff implemented standard concussion protocols, initially estimating a 10-to-14-day recovery period. On May 15, 2026, Valverde participated in low-intensity drills, including rondos and finishing exercises, while strictly avoiding contact or impact activities. Although his recovery is progressing positively, his inclusion in the upcoming match against Sevilla remains unlikely due to the strict adherence to safety protocols. However, there is optimism that he could be available for the season's final game against Athletic Club, pending final medical clearance. This development comes as Real Madrid prepares for their penultimate match of the season, aiming to end the campaign with victories despite high dressing room tension and limited stakes beyond pride.

1 reports · 1 sources

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has returned to partial team training following a recovery period for a craniocerebral trauma. The injury resulted from an altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni, an incident that previously led to significant fines for both players and immediate medical intervention. Valverde participated in low-intensity exercises, such as rondos and finishing drills, while strictly avoiding any contact or impact activities under the guidance of the club's medical staff. His reintegration is progressing positively, though final clearance depends on further medical evaluations. There is a possibility he could be included in the squad for the upcoming match against Athletic Club if he passes these assessments. Meanwhile, other squad members have varying status updates: Andriy Lunin remains absent due to a viral illness, while Dean Huijsen has recovered and trained normally. Players including Ferland Mendy, Eder Militao, Arda Güler, and Rodrygo continue their individual recovery plans without complications. This development marks a crucial step for Real Madrid as they approach the penultimate matchday of the La Liga season against Sevilla.

1 reports · 1 sources

Uruguayan midfielder Federico Valverde has returned to training with Real Madrid, marking a surprising recovery just one week after a physical altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméní. The incident, which resulted in a cut on Valverde's forehead, initially led the club to announce a fourteen-day absence for the player. However, Valverde appeared at the team's training session earlier than expected, demonstrating his determination to regain fitness quickly. His primary objective is to be available for selection in the two remaining matches of the current season before the upcoming World Cup. This rapid return has drawn significant attention from fans and media alike, as stakeholders assess the potential impact on the team's final lineup and performance. The situation highlights the intense competitive environment within the squad as they approach the end of the season. While the initial prognosis suggested a longer recovery period, Valverde's presence on the pitch indicates a successful rehabilitation process. Observers are now closely monitoring his condition and integration back into full team activities to ensure he is match-ready for the crucial fixtures ahead.

1 reports · 1 sources

Manchester City are reportedly among several major European clubs closely monitoring the future of Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde, according to Spanish outlet AS. The Uruguayan international is valued between €100 million and €120 million, presenting a significant financial commitment for any potential suitor. Although City previously expressed interest last summer, the report emphasizes that Valverde remains committed to staying at Real Madrid and has no intention of forcing a move. Recent tensions, including an altercation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni, resulted in a fine but no sporting sanctions, suggesting the club does not view the situation as critical enough to warrant a sale. Consequently, any potential transfer would likely depend on Real Madrid's strategic decision rather than player pressure. Analysts note that while Valverde’s profile fits Pep Guardiola’s tactical needs perfectly, offering intensity and Champions League experience, a deal remains unlikely unless Madrid’s stance shifts dramatically. This story highlights ongoing market interest but confirms that no formal transfer process has currently begun.

1 reports · 1 sources

Chelsea are prepared to renew their pursuit of AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, aiming to secure a new number one after previous failed attempts. Meanwhile, Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain are monitoring Federico Valverde’s situation at Real Madrid, where internal discord has reportedly made the midfielder available. In other Premier League movements, Aston Villa have initiated contact for Matias Soule to strengthen their squad for potential Champions League football. Several clubs, including Everton, Crystal Palace, and Bournemouth, are interested in FC Midtjylland winger Dario Osorio. Newcastle United are targeting local rival Middlesbrough’s Hayden Hackney following the latter's playoff disappointment. Additionally, Arsenal plan to offload players like Christian Norgaard to fund summer transfers. These developments highlight significant activity across European football as top clubs adjust their rosters for the upcoming season amidst various domestic and continental pressures.

1 reports · 1 sources

Tensions have escalated at Real Madrid following a public dispute between star striker Kylian Mbappe and coach Alvaro Arbeloa. After being excluded from the starting lineup during a 2-0 La Liga victory against Real Oviedo, Mbappe claimed Arbeloa labeled him merely the 'fourth striker' behind teammates Mastantuono, Vini, and Gonzalo. Although Mbappe entered the match in the 68th minute and assisted Jude Bellingham’s goal, he faced boos from fans amid rumors that he prioritized personal travel over injury recovery. Arbeloa firmly denied Mbappe’s assertions, stating he does not categorize players in such a hierarchy and suggesting a misunderstanding occurred. This incident adds to growing internal instability at the club, which recently fined midfielders Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni for a physical altercation in the dressing room. The conflict highlights deepening cracks within the team as they navigate competitive pressures and internal disciplinary issues. Mbappe maintained his professionalism publicly, affirming his fitness and commitment to earning a starting spot, but the contradiction between player and coach signals significant managerial challenges ahead for Los Blancos.

1 reports · 1 sources