Valverde talks Alonso, derby defeat, right-back role ahead of Kairat Almaty vs Real Madrid | OneFootball

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde faced the press ahead of his team’s upcoming UEFA Champions League fixture against Kairat Almaty.

The Uruguayan was honest about the team’s struggles following their 2-5 loss to Atletico Madrid and underlined the need for a stronger reaction.

“[We need to] Try to change what happened the other day, go out with a different attitude and win. Let it be a small revenge to change the dynamic,” Valverde said when asked about the mindset going into the game.

Reflecting on the derby defeat, the captain admitted that it had been a painful experience. “It was two very tough days, very difficult because of the defeat. It was a very hard blow.

“We talked a lot. Since I’ve been at Madrid, it has happened very few times. We have to change as quickly as possible.

“We emphasised the attitude on the field. Also, with the coach, there were many talks. Tomorrow, the first game to change all that.”

More on derby defeat

Valverde also spoke candidly about the importance of attitude, particularly in big matches like the derby.

Federico Valverde opened about about the derby defeat. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

“These are games where you don’t need to shout in the dressing room to get motivated. These things can’t happen, either at Madrid or anywhere else.

“You have to be motivated for every game, especially a derby. We can fail in many things, but attitude is non-negotiable.

“It’s the first thing we need to show that we want to win. In the first few minutes of the second half, we came out as if the draw was enough for us.

“We have to change that, starting with this game. As a leader of this team, we have to move on from that moment and take this game as an opportunity to grow.”

Defeats under Xabi Alonso

When asked about head coach Xabi Alonso, Valverde dismissed any doubts. “We have played many games, but not long with Xabi.

“We have to give our best, 100%, so that everything is resolved as soon as possible. We have had two defeats with Xabi, and they were very tough.

“These things are part of football, but we have to try to prevent them from happening, change the image. We have to be as united as possible, on and off the pitch, to make it a good year.”

On his personal form, Valverde admitted he has been frustrated. “I’m a little frustrated. I’m aware of how I’m playing.

“It’s true that I had started well in the new project, in the World Cup, I think I played well there. Now I find it much harder to feel comfortable on the field.

“I’ll keep working. As captain, I’ll continue to lead the group and stand up for myself when I play. I’m going to keep my head up and move forward.”

Ready to step in wherever needed

With Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold unavailable, there have been whispers about Valverde returning as an emergency right-back.

“I wasn’t born to play fullback. I didn’t grow up playing there. It was an emergency situation. But I always wondered if those games were just a bit of luck, spontaneous nights.

Federico Valverde is ready to play as a right-back. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

“I felt comfortable as a full-back. I’m always available and I will learn a new position if necessary.”

He noted that although he does not feel comfortable in defence, he is ready to do it for the team.

“I don’t feel comfortable because I didn’t grow up playing there. Some things are difficult for me, like closing down at the back in defence.

“But I try to show attitude and that’s why things are going well for me there. I grew up in the middle, I learned a lot there from many players.

“But I’ve done well at full-back, and I’m here for whatever the coach needs.”

Refuting the rumours

Addressing rumours that he had refused to play in certain positions, Valverde was firm. “If I say that, people might think I’m lying.

“Ask the coach, I’ve always said that I’m at the team’s disposal. I’ve never refused to play in any position, I always give my best wherever I’m played.

“With Ancelotti, with Zidane and with Xabi. I always gave my opinion. Whoever starts has to embrace that opportunity as if it were their last. I never refused.

“It’s strange that something like that would come up. I’m always there for the team and I’ll always give my all for Real Madrid.”

Finally, turning his focus back to Kairat Almaty, Valverde explained how the team has been preparing for this tie.

“We haven’t trained tactically for this match. Those who played less against Atleti have had their training. We’ve watched a lot of videos of Kairat.

“But there were more important things, growing as teams, focusing on our own game, that come first.

“It’s an honour to come and play here. We’re going for the win for our fans,” he concluded.