Amid rumors that Fede Valverde “refused to play” at right back against Kairat, the Real Madrid midfielder fired off a strong message on social media, claiming he would play “wherever” Xabi Alonso needed.
Real Madrid once again find themselves without a healthy first-team right back. Both Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal are injured, leaving Alonso forced to improvise on the right flank.
Valverde, who was expected to reprise his emergency fullback duties from last season, publicly declared his desire to remain in the midfield, stating he does “not enjoy” playing at right back. Then, Alonso benched him in Real Madrid’s 5–0 victory over Kairat.
The decision prompted speculation from fans and the Spanish press that Valverde’s comments cost him a place in Los Blancos’ XI. Some reports even went as far to say that the Uruguayan refused to play at Central Stadium.
Less than 24 hours later, Valverde set the record straight with a lengthy statement on social media.
