Toni Kroos heaps praise on in-form Real Madrid superstar – ‘He’s been flying’ | OneFootball

Federico Valverde is experiencing one of the best periods of his career and has become a key figure for Real Madrid in recent weeks.

Having endured a mixed first half of the season under Xabi Alonso, the Uruguayan international has hit his strides since Alvaro Arbeloa took over the reins in January.

The midfielder delivered a decisive hat-trick against Manchester City in the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16 and has recorded five goal involvements in his last six league matches.

Kroos in awe of Valverde

Valverde’s impact has been so significant that Real Madrid legend Toni Kroos has openly praised him.

The former German midfielder, who retired in 2024, spoke about his ex-teammate while working as a commentator during a broadcast of the Icon League in Germany.

Kroos full of praise for Valverde. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

“You could say that, in what had been a rather mediocre season for Real Madrid, he gave the impression of being able to carry the team on his shoulders,” Kroos said (h/t AS), highlighting Valverde’s growing influence on the team’s play and results.

Continuing, Kroos added: “Things weren’t perfect for him either, but that surge, the match against City, for me it’s no fluke, because he’s a guy who not only has quality, but also the right mentality.

“Since then he’s been flying on the pitch. It’s truly incredible how he’s playing right now. I hope it lasts a long time, because I have a very good relationship with him.”

So far this season, Valverde has made 42 appearances in all competitions, scoring eight and assisting 12 goals.

Apart from the hat-trick against Manchester City, Valverde has scored a goal in each of Real Madrid’s last three La Liga games against Celta Vigo, Elche, and Atletico Madrid.