According to Mundo Deportivo, Jose Mourinho has no doubts about Federico Valverde’s importance to Real Madrid despite the midfielder enduring one of the toughest seasons of his career.

While criticism has intensified following Uruguay’s early World Cup elimination, the Portuguese manager remains convinced that the 27-year-old will be a key figure in his new project at the Santiago Bernabeu.

World Cup exit adds to a difficult year

Valverde’s challenging campaign ended on another disappointing note as Uruguay crashed out of the World Cup following defeat to Spain in the group stage.

The elimination sparked widespread criticism from Uruguayan supporters and media, with many questioning both the team’s performances and Valverde’s leadership as one of the squad’s senior players.

Rumours of a falling out with manager Marcelo Bielsa did little to help for the midfielder, who is tipped to succeed Dani Carvajal as Real Madrid’s next captain.

A season full of setbacks

The World Cup disappointment capped what has been a frustrating year for the midfielder. Throughout the season, Valverde has faced constant scrutiny over multiple issues.

The midfielder’s inconsistent performances for Real Madrid, particularly under Xabi Alonso, A ended with him enduring a noticeable dip in form compared to previous campaigns.

Not to forget, the 27-year-old also had some disagreements with Alonso and his coaching staff. Adding to that were the tensions with Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa.

On top of that, Valverde was involved in a highly publicised physical altercation with Real Madrid teammate Aurelien Tchouameni, which left the Uruguayan with a head injury.

The combination of those issues has led some observers to suggest that Real Madrid should consider parting ways with the Uruguayan during the summer transfer window.

Mourinho has full confidence

Despite all this, inside Real Madrid, however, Mourinho’s position is very different.

The Portuguese coach has no intention of moving Valverde on and instead sees him as one of the players capable of leading the team in the coming years.

Far from questioning his future, Mourinho plans to hand the midfielder an important role in his squad. The Portuguese tactician’s priority is helping Valverde rediscover the level that made him one of Europe’s most complete midfielders.

The two have already spoken, with the new manager encouraging the Uruguayan to leave recent controversies behind and focus exclusively on his performances on the pitch.

For the Portuguese coach, there is no uncertainty surrounding the player’s future. His objective is not to replace Valverde but to rebuild him into one of the team’s leaders for the new era at the club.