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Graham Hunter
Multiple Authors
The last time Federico Valverde faced Bayern Munich, his performance was unremarkable, and his team nearly faced elimination from the 2024 UEFA Champions League semifinal. A fortnight ago, during his last game at the Santiago Bernabéu, he received a red card, leaving his team shorthanded in the Madrid Derbi, although he had scored earlier, watching Los Blancos win 3-2 against Atlético Madrid.
However, Valverde’s previous Champions League match for Real Madrid was nothing short of remarkable. He delivered a dazzling 22-minute hat trick against Manchester City, marking one of the finest performances across the European season.
Due to his suspension from the Derbi, the 27-year-old missed Madrid’s recent defeat to Mallorca, emphasizing the impact of his absence on the team’s fortune.
Now, he returns with immense responsibility, armed with 8 goals and 12 assists this season, wearing the No. 8 jersey.
It’s significant to note that Valverde’s squad number was previously 15. This transition indicates that Toni Kroos, a legendary figure at both Madrid and Bayern, has retired, leaving behind not just an empty jersey but also a wealth of experience and leadership. Valverde has stepped up to take on both the number and the accompanying responsibilities during challenging times for the team.
I had the opportunity to interview Valverde earlier this season, during a UEFA event.
“I discussed with my wife the respect I felt for Toni when considering his number,” Valverde shared. “If it were up to me, I believe that someone of his caliber deserved his number to be retired, as they do in the NBA, to honor his legacy.” After thoughtful consideration and Kroos’s own endorsement, Valverde embraced the significance of the number, viewing it as his moment to enjoy and treat each game as potentially his last.
Kroos, much like Xabi Alonso, is one of the defining figures in the history of both clubs.
During his time at Bayern, Kroos amassed numerous trophies and accolades, continuing the trend at Madrid, where he concluded his career with a Champions League title in 2024 after their nail-biting defeat of Bayern in their last encounter.
As the rematch approaches, where Vincent Kompany’s team is favored by many analysts, Kroos is keeping a keen eye on Valverde as a potential wildcard.
“In what has been a difficult season for Real Madrid, Federico has been able to shoulder the team’s burdens,” Kroos remarked in an interview with Sport Bild. “Even amidst challenges, his quality and mindset are not coincidental; he’s a player who is now excelling immensely. I hope he continues this way.”
Kroos’s remarks highlight Valverde’s outstanding form, which includes seven goals and five assists over his last twelve matches, marking a new high in his creative output.
For fans, the best evidence of Valverde’s contributions is often found in simply watching him play; he excels in multiple roles on the field, often saving teammates in difficult situations. His versatility is impressive.
Valverde did experience some challenges during Xabi Alonso’s tenure, often being required to play as a right back, a role he may not prefer. However, since the new year, he has often captained the side and taken charge, signaling his intent to influence the outcome of major trophies.
He articulated his philosophy on teamwork, emphasizing the importance of sacrifice, particularly among South Americans, which he learned from his parents’ hard work and sacrifices.
“I strive to embody the values I witnessed as a child. It inspires me to sacrifice for the team and instill similar beliefs in my teammates, fostering unity and team spirit at Real Madrid.”
When I inquired about the defining characteristic of Uruguayan players, Valverde emphasized the term “fighter,” a sentiment echoed in his competitive spirit.
As Valverde prepares to step onto the electric atmosphere of the Bernabéu on Tuesday, thoughts of his father’s emotional response to his opportunity at Madrid will certainly resonate within him. He recalls living crowded conditions in the Peñarol first team and recognizes moments of past overconfidence upon joining Real Madrid.
Those moments are now distant memories.
Valverde described the emotions he feels just before taking the field, highlighting a sense of pride in representing the club.
“I walk out feeling happy and proud to wear the badge. The shirt gives you strength. After so many games, nerves fade; all the fatigue disappears when you emerge to see the fans, hear the Champions League anthem, and feel this wave of excitement. It’s a mix of emotions and a huge honor, fueling my desire to give my all.”
Bayern Munich certainly won’t overlook Valverde’s abilities in their preparations, but reading his words underscores the warning: he is determined to secure victory and knows what it takes to achieve it.