Valverde reveals why he turned down Toni Kroos’ No.8

Ahead of Real Madrid’s highly anticipated clash with Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium, Federico Valverde sat down with UEFA for a heartfelt interview filled with pride, determination, and reflection. The Uruguayan midfielder, known for his versatility and passion on the field, opened up about his journey with the iconic white jersey and his emotional connection to the club.

As the 25-year-old prepares for one of the biggest fixtures of the season, he reflected on what it means to wear the famous Real Madrid shirt. Valverde spoke with reverence, expressing how much the club’s history and its supporters shape his mindset every time he steps onto the pitch.

The Pride of Wearing Real Madrid’s Colors

“The Real Madrid shirt makes you even bigger and stronger,” Valverde said, his voice thick with emotion. “When you hear the Champions League anthem and the club’s anthem, when you step onto the pitch and see the fans waiting for you, all the pain and fatigue disappear. It’s as if the stadium, the fans, and the history of this club give you an invincible strength. It fills you with pride and honor, making you feel like you can accomplish anything.”

Having already lifted two Champions League trophies with the club, Valverde’s most cherished memory came from their historic 2021-2022 campaign. “Honestly, nothing will ever be as magical as the first time we won the Champions League. The comebacks, the determination, the fans—everything was just perfect. That victory will stay with us forever. Even though we want to win more, nothing will ever match that first moment.”

A Special Bond with the Number 8

This season, Valverde made waves by switching his number to the legendary No. 8, a jersey famously worn by Toni Kroos during his illustrious career at Real Madrid. For Valverde, the decision was not taken lightly. He revealed that he initially hesitated to take the number out of respect for Kroos, whose impact on the club was undeniable. “I spoke with my wife about it, and I was unsure. I didn’t want to take the No. 8 because Toni had made it his own, and he had earned it,” Valverde explained. “In fact, if it were up to me, I would have retired the number like they do in the NBA, out of respect for what Toni has done for this club.”

The Blessing of Kroos

However, Valverde’s perspective changed when he received Kroos’ blessing. “When Toni accepted, I knew it was my time to step up,” Valverde said with a smile. “It’s not a burden for me but rather an opportunity—a chance to write my own chapter in the history of this club.”

For Valverde, wearing No. 8 is not just about continuing a legacy; it’s about embracing a fresh challenge. “Every day in training, every match, I try to savor the moment as if it were my last. I’m always pushing myself, always striving to be better, and the No. 8 symbolizes that mindset.”

A New Chapter for Valverde

As one of the brightest young talents in world football, Valverde’s journey with Real Madrid has been nothing short of spectacular. His rise from a promising young prospect to a key figure in the team has been marked by hard work, dedication, and a fierce desire to contribute to the club’s ongoing success. Since his arrival in 2016, Valverde has proven himself to be a dynamic and essential part of the midfield, known for his work ethic, vision, and goal-scoring ability.

The midfielder’s versatility has been a key asset to manager Carlo Ancelotti, who has utilized Valverde in various positions across the midfield and even on the wing. His ability to adapt to different tactical setups has made him indispensable to the team.

Valverde’s Ambition and Motivation

While Valverde’s past achievements with Real Madrid are impressive, the midfielder is not one to rest on his laurels. His ambition and hunger for success remain as strong as ever, and he is determined to help guide the team to more silverware. “We’ve won a lot, but there’s still so much more to achieve. Real Madrid is a club that always aims for greatness, and that’s what drives me every day,” he said.

Valverde’s mentality reflects the broader culture of Real Madrid, a club known for its constant pursuit of excellence. As the team prepares for the upcoming match against Arsenal, Valverde’s determination to succeed shines through, and his mindset will undoubtedly inspire his teammates.

Reflecting on the Past and Embracing the Future

Despite the many accolades and triumphs, Valverde remains deeply connected to the journey that brought him here. He recalled the early days of his career when he first joined Real Madrid, a young player with dreams of playing at the highest level. “I remember the first time I walked into the training ground. I was so nervous, but at the same time, I knew this was where I wanted to be. The history, the culture—it was all so overwhelming,” he said.

Now, as one of the core players in the team, Valverde looks ahead to the future with excitement. “Every match is a new opportunity to learn and grow. I want to be a part of Real Madrid’s history for years to come, and I want to help the club win more trophies.”

The Importance of the Arsenal Match

With the clash against Arsenal on the horizon, Valverde is ready to give his all for the team. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams in top form. For Valverde, it’s a chance to continue his journey with Real Madrid and to prove once again that he is one of the best midfielders in the world.

As the team heads to the Emirates Stadium, Valverde’s pride and determination will serve as a guiding force for his teammates. His leadership, both on and off the field, will be crucial in ensuring Real Madrid continues to challenge for the top honors.

Valverde’s Legacy at Real Madrid

Looking ahead, Valverde’s legacy at Real Madrid is already beginning to take shape. His contributions to the team have been immense, and his dedication to the club is unquestionable. Whether it’s scoring crucial goals, making key assists, or breaking up opposition attacks, Valverde’s influence on the pitch is undeniable.

As one of the rising stars in world football, Valverde is poised to achieve even greater heights with Real Madrid. His commitment to the club’s values and his passion for success make him a player to watch in the coming seasons.

In Conclusion: A Player with No Limits

Federico Valverde is more than just a talented footballer—he is a player with a deep sense of responsibility to his club, his teammates, and the fans who support him. His pride in wearing the Real Madrid shirt, his respect for the club’s history, and his desire to leave a lasting legacy all contribute to his status as one of the most promising talents in world football.

As he steps onto the pitch against Arsenal, Valverde’s ambition and determination will be on full display. For Real Madrid, the future is bright with players like him leading the way.

With every match, Valverde continues to build his legacy and, in the process, strengthens Real Madrid’s position as one of the greatest football clubs in history.