By Martin Graham
Xabi Alonso has been in charge of Real Madrid for just two matches, but that has been enough for him to see the qualities of Federico Valverde. After the team’s 3–1 victory over Pachuca, Alonso offered strong praise for the Uruguayan midfielder, likening him to former teammate Steven Gerrard.
“I haven’t seen many players with his physical performance,” Alonso said. “He reminds me of someone like Steven Gerrard.” The former Liverpool and Real Madrid midfielder played alongside Gerrard for five years and won the Champions League together in 2005 after a dramatic comeback against AC Milan.
Alonso, who later joined Real Madrid as a player, emphasized how much he values Valverde’s contribution. “He can play anywhere, and I’m very happy to be coaching him. All coaches would like to have a Valverde on the team.”
A key figure in a star-studded team
While the attention around Real Madrid often centers on Kylian Mbappé, Jude Bellingham, and Vinícius Júnior, Valverde continues to prove himself as the team’s most dependable and adaptable player. In the 2024–25 season, he featured in more matches than anyone else at the club, playing over 5,000 minutes in 59 appearances across all competitions.
This level of involvement has carried into the summer, with Valverde playing every minute of Real Madrid’s first two games at the FIFA Club World Cup. In the extreme heat of Miami and Charlotte, the 26-year-old’s only breaks have come during scheduled hydration pauses.
His endurance and ability to operate in different positions have made him indispensable. Last season, he was used at right back, and in the recent match against Pachuca, he started on the right wing and scored a goal at Bank of America Stadium.
Redemption and consistency
Valverde’s goal against Pachuca was a response to a recent setback. In Real Madrid’s Club World Cup opener against Al Hilal, he missed a crucial penalty that cost his team a win. According to Alonso, the goal served as a way for Valverde to move past that disappointment.
“He got rid of the bad taste in his mouth from the penalty the other day today,” said Alonso, noting the midfielder’s emotional reaction after scoring. “His determination was evident in his celebration.”
Despite being naturally suited to central midfield, Valverde’s willingness to fill various roles on the pitch continues to set him apart. His reliability, energy, and tactical flexibility have quickly earned the respect of Alonso, who has wasted no time in expressing his admiration.
