Real Madrid captain set for makeshift duties against Getafe and possibly Juventus | OneFootball

Real Madrid are facing doubts over the availability of Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold for their upcoming La Liga clash against Getafe. While they have resumed training, their participation remains uncertain.

This means Xabi Alonso will have to improvise and find a suitable solution for the right-back role.

As such, reports from Mundo Deportivo suggest that, barring any surprises, Federico Valverde will return to right-back against Getafe and could also continue in that position for the Champions League match against Juventus.

The outlet also mentions that there is a remote possibility he could feature there in El Clasico on October 26th, depending on whether Alexander-Arnold or Carvajal recover in time for the game against Barcelona.

A strong defensive presence

Valverde’s involvement at right-back has not been without controversy this season. Earlier in the campaign, he openly admitted that he does not prefer playing in that position.

This was followed by him being left out of the Champions League fixture against Kairat Almaty, where he was seen warming up listlessly on the touchline.

Federico Valverde could play as a right back against Getafe. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Both Valverde and Xabi Alonso strongly denied these claims. In fact, Alonso chose Valverde at right-back against Villarreal, clearly signalling that the player’s selection was fully endorsed by the coach.

The result? One of Valverde’s best performances of the season, demonstrating his versatility, work rate, and defensive awareness.

Alonso has no other option

Alonso has experimented with other options, including Asensio, but nothing has matched Valverde’s effectiveness in the position.

With injuries to Carvajal and Alexander-Arnold persisting, Valverde remains the safest and most reliable choice to anchor Real Madrid’s defence on the right flank.

As the team prepares for a crucial run of matches in both La Liga and the Champions League, Alonso’s faith in Valverde as a makeshift right-back could prove decisive.

What is certain is that the Uruguayan midfielder is not just a key part of Madrid’s midfield, but also a valuable solution in defence when needed.