Real Madrid player apologises for World Cup showing – ‘Even if…’

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·4 Juli 2026

Real Madrid player apologises for World Cup showing – ‘Even if…’

Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde has released an emotional statement following Uruguay’s exit at the World Cup. The future Real Madrid captain has endured a tough season both at club and international level, and now will have some time off to recover from a taxing campaign.

Valverde was involved in an altercation with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni towards the end of the season, but even before that was called out by the Real Madrid fans for his perceived role in the sacking of Xabi Alonso. With Dani Carvajal leaving the club this summer, Valverde is by seniority, the next in line to be captain of the club.

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Valverde apologises for World Cup showing

The 27-year-old was due to the be star for Uruguay at the World Cup too, but struggled to have an impact ad was withdrawn for the final half an hour of their decisive game against Spain, which saw them eliminated. Valverde has since put out a statement on Instagram.

It has been several days since the elimination, and only now am I beginning to process everything I went through, though I know a part of me may never truly get over another first-round exit like the one I suffered at the Qatar World Cup. That thorn is still stuck in my side.

I feel an enormous responsibility toward my country. It is a source of pride that fills my soul. I did everything within my power: I prepared myself physically and emotionally and worked hard all season, trying to ensure history didn’t repeat itself. But, evidently, it wasn’t enough. I accept the defeat. I take full responsibility for failing to fulfill my duty to the national team and to all of you.

I own this failure and acknowledge that I wasn’t up to the task. But under no circumstances will I give up on representing my country, even if it takes me a lifetime. I don’t know how or when, but I swear on my life that I will not leave this national team without taking it to the very top.

Valverde ahead of crucial season at Real Madrid

Enjoying the credit of many years of sacrifice, Valverde is facing arguably the most important season of his Real Madrid career. Should he struggle, or fail to click with Jose Mourinho, the narrative will grow that Real Madrid could look to move him on next summer. At that point, Valverde will be 28, and will have two years left on his deal, meaning Los Blancos will likely be required to offer Valverde his last big contract in order to keep him beyond 2028.