Real Madrid News
Federico Valverde says under-fire Real Madrid teammate is ‘one of the best in the world’
Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has expressed his admiration for his teammate Kylian Mbappe, highlighting the French forward’s exceptional talent and character.
Valverde firmly believes that Mbappe is one of the finest players in the world, praising his skills and contributions to the team. He expressed his delight at having Mbappe at Real Madrid, referring to it as a great source of satisfaction.
“Kylian Mbappe is spectacular. We all know he’s a world-class player, one of the best in the world. I’m very happy he’s at Real Madrid. Thank God, it’s a great satisfaction,” he told L’Equipe.
Public criticism of Mbappe
There has been considerable discussion about Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid, with some sceptics questioning whether he would fit in or if conflicts might arise.
However, Valverde noted that Mbappe has successfully silenced any doubts, proving himself to be a remarkable person both on and off the pitch.

This resilience and ability to rise above the chatter surrounding his transfer have only solidified Valverde’s appreciation for him.
“A lot of people talked about him, that he couldn’t come here, that there would be conflicts. he silenced all those noises and showed that he is a spectacular person.”
Valverde emphasized that having a player of Mbappe’s calibre in the team is a privilege. He expressed his joy not just for himself but also for his family, who can watch and enjoy the magic that Mbappe brings to the game.
“Mbappe is a top player. That’s why we are happy that he is here. I can enjoy, my family can enjoy, my children also can watch him.”
Additionally, Valverde praised Mbappe’s efforts to learn Spanish, saying that his proficiency is impressive and even surpasses his own.
“Mbappe’s Spanish? Yes, it’s very impressive, it’s even better than mine. He is also an incredible person,” he noted.
Real Madrid News
Confirmed: Real Madrid starting lineup against Elche – Guler in for Bellingham
Real Madrid will be looking to pick up their fifth win of the 2026/27 La Liga season when they take on Elche CF at Estadio Manuel Martinez Valero later tonight.
With 12 points from five games, Los Blancos are currently second in the league table, three points below leaders FC Barcelona.
As such, the Spanish capital club will be eager to get the win and close the gap to the top.
Guler starts, Bellingham rested
Ahead of kickoff, Real Madrid have announced the starting lineup that will take the field against Elche, with Jose Mourinho making some important changes.
For starters, Arda Guler is back in the lineup after appearing as a substitute in the win over Rayo Vallecano.
Interestingly, however, he starts in the attacking midfield role, with Mourinho opting to rest Jude Bellingham, who has started all of Real Madrid’s games so far.
That also means that Yan Diomande retains his place in the team, starting for a second time in a row on the right wing. Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. continue in their respective positions in attack.
Another notable change sees Aurelien Tchouameni make his first start of the season after recovering from injury and making two appearances off the bench.
He replaces Bernardo Silva as Federico Valverde’s partner in the middle of the park.
Meanwhile, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Marc Cucurella come in as full-backs, while Ibrahima Konate and Dean Huijsen slot in at centre-back in front of goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.
📋✅ ¡Nuestro XI inicial!
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) September 15, 2026
🆚 @ElcheCF
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