Ahead of Real Madrid’s upcoming UEFA Champions League match against Atalanta tomorrow night, midfielder Federico Valverde spoke to the media, offering insights into the team’s current form, his personal perspective, and the challenges they face.
Real Madrid go into the game having lost three of their five UCL matches, that has left them in the 24th place in the table, with direct qualification to the knockouts almost ruled out.
Valverde began by addressing the key to success in tomorrow’s match, as he said: “We find ourselves in a situation that we are not used to, and the only way to change the tide is by going out on the pitch at full capacity, showing everything we have worked on these past days.
“Solidarity at the back and efficiency up front. We know Atalanta can mark man-to-man, but this could benefit us given the players we have. Let us focus on that.”
When asked how it feels to look at the table and see Real Madrid in 24th place, Valverde admitted:
“It is tough, obviously. We are not used to going through these moments; we are always at the top. But we need to remain calm, accept that this is part of football, part of the process, and trust in the work.
“Hopefully, we will be celebrating titles by the end of the season. Despite winning so much, we must keep our feet on the ground.”
The Uruguayan was then asked about Atalanta’s form, having won nine consecutive matches, and their aggressive high press. Valverde was quick to acknowledge the lessons learned from their recent loss to Athletic Bilbao at San Mames.
“What happened at San Mames taught me a lot. It was a lesson to improve, to learn, and to ensure such an error does not happen again.
“Atalanta will be a team that puts us in many difficulties and will press us hard, but we have very fast and skilled players. We are players made for these types of matches.”
On a more personal note, Valverde was asked how he views his own form, given that he made a critical mistake in the game against Athletic and has even had to play as a full-back in a few games.
“No, no. We have not spoken much about it. Very little, or almost nothing. But I have all the advice I have received over the years. I cannot mess it up any more. Now it is up to me,” he said.
“I cannot ask for advice as a full-back… that would be too much! I want to be helpful to the team, give my best wherever they need me.
“Sometimes the games do not go as I would like… and at San Mames, I made a mistake that cost us the match, something that had never happened to me in my career.
“It was hard to sleep that night, but these things are part of football. What is important is to move forward and show that, as one of the captains, I can be an example.”
Eager to bounce back strongly. (Photo by Juan Manuel Serrano Arce/Getty Images)
In light of Carlo Ancelotti’s recent comments about receiving excessive criticism, Valverde agreed, saying:
“Well, it is part of our job. Sometimes you will put us on a pedestal, and that is nice… but when things do not go well, it feels like the worst days of our lives. It is not easy, but we must learn to live with it.
“We are an example for children, so we need to overcome these moments in the best way possible.”
The midfielder was also asked about Vinicius’ recovery and his potential return to the starting lineup.
“It is good when injured players return, and for me, it is a pleasure to have him back, bringing everything he contributes: joy, football, hunger. It is a great satisfaction and joy that he might be there tomorrow, although whether he starts will be up to the coach.”
Valverde also reflected on the team’s struggles with being “compact,” a concept the coach has stressed. “The line-ups are the responsibility of the coach. He is the one who selects the team. We must give our best, no matter what the formation is.
“We must all contribute. As a midfielder, I like playing with forwards who take the ball forward rather than backwards. We midfielders try to make sure they look towards the opponent’s goal, rather than focusing on defending.”
He was also asked about his personal stamina, given that he has played every match since May 11.
“I want to keep playing. I try to rest and eat well to recover for the next day. Of course, sometimes the mind can explode. After San Mames, for example, it was very hard for me to sleep because I am not used to going through these moments.
“I told my wife that I might be a bit mentally tired, and she told me not to dwell on it, that I am a captain and need to face everything.
“My priority is for the team to see that, even with mistakes, we must always move forward. It is an honour to wear this shirt and defend the best team in the world.”
Finally, Valverde was asked about his extraordinary consistency, with only Antonio Rudiger playing more minutes than him this season.
“The secret is to enjoy defending this badge to the fullest, playing for this fanbase. For me, it is an immense honour.
“Of course, there are days when I am tired, but I want my children to see everything I gave to Real Madrid when I retire. I want my parents to be proud of me. I want to play always,” he concluded.
Source: AS