Real Madrid’s Fede Valverde has urged his teammates to unite behind manager Xabi Alonso after their recent Champions League loss to Liverpool. The Uruguayan midfielder, who played as a right-back during the match at Anfield, offered insights into the reasons behind the defeat.
Post-match, Valverde spoke with Movistar+, expressing confidence in moving on from the setback.
“We aimed for victory, but today it didn’t go our way. We appreciate the support from fans who braved the weather. We’re improving and this is a tough blow, but we have been performing well. We’ll bounce back, just like we did after losing to Atletico Madrid,” he stated.
“Es un golpe duro para nosotros, pero lo importante es salir adelante como hicimos tras la derrota ante el Atlético de Madrid”.
👤 Fede Valverde, con @Rsierraplus tras caer en Anfield.#UCL #LaCasaDelFútbol pic.twitter.com/H3ndhpVHyk
— Fútbol en Movistar Plus+ (@MovistarFutbol) November 4, 2025
Valverde Explores the Reasons for Defeat – ‘Concentration’
A critique noted by Spanish commentators was Real Madrid’s lack of intensity against Liverpool. Valverde, echoing Alonso’s concerns, emphasized the importance of focusing on ‘details’ and effectively defending set-pieces.
“We have to maintain a mindset where every match counts. Even after this defeat, we might still secure a place in the top eight. However, with this crest, we must always aim for victory. Interestingly, when we won the Champions League, our first home game at the Bernabeu ended in a loss to Sheriff, yet no one expected us to go on and win the tournament after that,” he shared with Marca.
“It wasn’t a lack of effort, rather a lapse in concentration when defending set pieces, which we knew posed a significant threat. We needed to be more vigilant. We are fortunate to have one of the best goalkeepers in the world. In the end, that’s just football,” he added.
‘We Must Follow What Xabi Alonso Says’ – Valverde
Recent weeks have seen scrutiny over Valverde’s relationship with Alonso, particularly after he publicly voiced his dissatisfaction about playing in defense. He told El Chiringuito that it’s crucial for him and his teammates to adhere to Alonso’s directives.
“As a leader, we must accept the manager’s decisions without displaying negative reactions or making gestures. We are all part of the same team, and if we don’t move in unison, it will be challenging. We need to stand together; when the manager speaks, we must listen,” he stated.
🙄 “Hay que ACEPTAR lo que dice XABI Y NO HACER GESTOS”.
🔥 Fede Valverde, tajante sobre la polémica con los penaltis en el Real Madrid.
📽️ @EduAguirre7 pic.twitter.com/ncT1XHglxE
— El Chiringuito TV (@elchiringuitotv) November 4, 2025
The most notable incident of dissent was when Vinicius Junior expressed frustration toward Alonso. Valverde defended his teammate, stating that Vinicius’ reaction stemmed from passion.
“Ultimately, he’s Vini, our Vini. These things happen during a match and in football. He always strives to play and win; we don’t settle for less. What’s important is that he continues to maintain that drive to contribute to the team,” Valverde remarked.
🏆#UCL #LIVRMA
🗣️ Valverde prend la défense de Vinicius après l’échauffourée du Clasico !#beINSPORTS pic.twitter.com/EKlzyUkSUJ— beIN SPORTS (@beinsports_FR) November 5, 2025