‘You have to go through these hurdles’ – Real Madrid ace finally breaks silence on infamous feud with Tchouameni | OneFootball

Federico Valverde has arrived in Uruguay full of confidence and motivation ahead of the upcoming World Cup, with the Real Madrid midfielder now preparing to play a major leadership role for his national side.

The 27-year-old joined the Uruguay camp as preparations officially began for the tournament, and it is clear that the midfielder is approaching the competition with enormous excitement. 

Under Marcelo Bielsa, Valverde has now become one of the captains of the national team, something he openly acknowledged while speaking to reporters upon his arrival.

The midfielder admitted that he now feels like “a role model” within the squad.

The Tchouameni incident

Valverde spoke about the incident with Tchouameni. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

During the interview, Valverde was also asked about his recent difficult moments off the pitch, including the widely discussed situation involving his Real Madrid teammate Aurelien Tchouameni. 

Rather than avoiding the topic, the Uruguayan answered calmly and reflected on how the experience helped him grow personally.

While discussing the matter, Valverde explained, “I feel great. I’ve had the support and affection of all the Real Madrid fans and the club as well.

“Sometimes you have to go through these little hurdles in football and in life to learn to grow and mature,” he said, before adding that the situation could help him “be a better captain in the coming years.”

Valverde fully focused on World Cup dream

Valverde has joined the national team for the World Cup. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Despite the distractions surrounding recent events, Valverde said that his entire focus is now on helping Uruguay enjoy a memorable World Cup campaign.

The midfielder spoke passionately about what representing his country means to him and admitted that winning the tournament remains the ultimate dream for any footballer.

“I’m always excited about lifting the trophy. It’s what you want most, what you always dreamed of as a kid: playing for the national team and lifting the World Cup.”

The Real Madrid midfielder lastly referenced the unforgettable 2010 World Cup campaign in South Africa, where Uruguay reached the semi-finals and finished fourth.

“We grew up with that image and we’d love to be able to match it, to make Uruguay proud,” he added.

Source: Mundo Deportivo