Real Madrid News
Real Madrid midfielder issues statement to clear the air amid reports of tension over playing position
Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has broken his silence following reports suggesting he was unhappy after being left out against Kairat Almaty.
The Uruguayan star, known for his professionalism and relentless work ethic, has taken to the media to set the record straight.
“I have read several articles damaging my reputation. I know I’ve had bad games, I’m aware of it.
“I’m not hiding, and I face the criticism head-on. I’m truly sad,” Valverde began, addressing the swirling rumours.
The midfielder made it clear that his commitment to the club has never dwindled, even in difficult circumstances.
Commitment and professionalism at the heart
Valverde emphasised that under no circumstances has he ever refused to play, highlighting his dedication to Real Madrid:
“People can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play.
“I have given everything and more for this club, I’ve played while fractured, injured, and I’ve never complained or asked for a break.”
He leído varios artículos dañando mi persona. Sé que he tenido partidos malos, soy consciente. No me escondo y doy la cara. Realmente estoy triste. De mí pueden decir muchas cosas, pero bajo ningún punto de vista pueden decir que me niego a jugar. He dado todo y más por este…
— Fede Valverde (@fedeevalverde) October 1, 2025
He also spoke about his relationship with manager Xabi Alonso, which he says is built on mutual trust and communication.
Valverde clarified that while he shares his preferred positions on the pitch, he is always ready to adapt wherever the team needs him.
“I have a good relationship with the coach, which makes me feel confident enough to tell him which position I prefer on the pitch, but I always, always made it clear that I’m available to perform anywhere, on any trip, and in every game.”
Fighting spirit remains unchanged
The 27-year-old midfielder concluded by affirming his pride and determination, promising fans that his commitment to Real Madrid will never fade.
“I’ve left my heart and soul in this club and I will continue to do so, even if sometimes it’s not enough or I’m not playing as I’d like.
“I swear on my pride that I will never give up and will fight until the end, playing wherever I’m needed.”
Valverde’s statement is a reminder of his professionalism and loyalty, qualities that have made him a crucial part of Real Madrid’s squad.
Now, as the season progresses, everyone will be watching closely, knowing that the Uruguayan’s fight and dedication remain complete.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid veteran Thibaut Courtois outlines his future plans: ‘Want to play for another five or six years’
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois is not thinking about retirement just yet, but the Belgian goalkeeper already appears to have an idea of what he would like to do when that day eventually arrives.
In a recent interview with Tuttomercato (h/t Defensa Central), Courtois revealed that he wants to continue playing for another five or six seasons before beginning a new chapter with Real Madrid.
“For now, I want to play for another five or six years,” he stated.
This comes on the back of Courtois stepping down from playing for the Belgian national team in order to focus on his club career, while he is also on the verge of signing a new contract with Los Blancos.
After recovering from serious injuries that threatened to disrupt his career and returning to his highest level, Courtois believes he can continue competing for several more seasons.
Plans for once he hangs up his boots
Once he is done with his playing career, Courtois’ ambition would be to work with the club’s academy goalkeepers and help develop the next top-class goalkeeper at Valdebebas.

Rather than managing a first-team squad, Courtois sees himself working in an area he knows inside out.
The Belgian would prefer to pass on everything he has learned throughout his career and help establish a high-level goalkeeping pathway within the club.
“I haven’t decided what I’ll do afterwards, but I’m not sure I want to be a first-team coach. With all the players you have to manage, I’d get old very quickly,” he said.
Developing the next Courtois at Valdebebas
The most revealing part of Courtois’ comments concerns what happens after his playing career.
He does not envisage completely walking away from football or Real Madrid. His ideal scenario would be to work with the club’s academy goalkeepers and play a role in their development.

“I’d like to work in Real Madrid’s goalkeeping department, creating a top-level academy to develop a new Thibaut Courtois rather than having to sign one,” he stated.
Having spent the largest part of his career at Real Madrid, he would like to help the club develop another goalkeeper of that calibre in the future rather than having to find one on the transfer market.
For now, he wants to continue playing for another five or six years.
Once his time between the posts eventually comes to an end, he would then like to remain at Valdebebas and help develop the goalkeepers who could eventually succeed him.

