Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde enters a defining period for both club and country, carrying the responsibility of leading Uruguay through a difficult World Cup campaign while preparing for a new chapter at the club under Jose Mourinho.

The midfielder captains Uruguay during a tournament that has already fallen below expectations, with draws against Saudi Arabia and Cape Verde leaving Marcelo Bielsa’s side under immense pressure ahead of a decisive clash against Spain.

Valverde arrived at the World Cup after a difficult finish to Real Madrid’s season.

The campaign ended without silverware and was overshadowed by tensions inside the dressing room, including a physical altercation involving Aurelien Tchouameni, which left him with a head injury.

Mourinho’s full confidence

However, according to El Mundo, Mourinho helped calm the situation behind the scenes, and Real Madrid continue to view him as one of the club’s most important players heading into next season.

With Dani Carvajal’s departure, the Uruguayan is expected to become one of the team’s senior leaders, and the new manager has already reassured him that he remains central to his plans.

Despite ongoing speculation linking Real Madrid with another midfielder, including Enzo Fernandez, the club has no intention of allowing Valverde to leave.

Instead, he will continue as an integral part of Mourinho’s midfield unit, along with Jude Bellingham in the upcoming season.

Now Uruguay need their leader

For now, though, Valverde’s focus will be on the World Cup where Uruguay are struggling. So far, La Celeste’s biggest problem so far has been turning promising performances into victories.

Valverde admitted the squad has been affected by tension and frustration, saying: “Anxiety worked against us. We’re frustrated and angry. We need to work harder and press better.”

Although he is yet to score at the tournament, Valverde has remained one of Uruguay’s most active attacking players. Only Arda Guler has attempted more shots among midfielders at this World Cup.

With qualification hanging in the balance, Uruguay will once again look to their captain to produce the performance that keeps their World Cup hopes alive.