Real Madrid’s midfield dynamo, Fede Valverde, has opened up about the influential figures in his career, revealing that his toughest critic these days is his wife, Mina Bonino. In an interview with Universo Valdano, Valverde fondly recalled how former teammate and current Manchester United star Casemiro played a vital role in his development during his early days at Real Madrid.
Valverde’s journey to stardom wasn’t straightforward. Signed as a teenager from Latin America, he earned his place through relentless effort, including a pivotal loan spell at Deportivo La Coruña. Reflecting on those formative years, Valverde praised Casemiro’s mentorship.
“When I arrived, I saw legends like Marcelo, Casemiro, Bale, Benzema, and Sergio Ramos sitting at the table. It was intimidating, but Casemiro made me feel welcome. He hugged me and said, ‘Sit here.’ In the locker room, he was always close, providing constructive criticism without the need to shout. He’d tell me, ‘Fede, you have to train more,’” Valverde shared, as quoted by Diario AS.
Now, Valverde says that role has been taken on by Bonino, who isn’t afraid to voice her opinions. A former football journalist from Argentina, Bonino relocated to Madrid to support Valverde’s career, and she hasn’t lost her sharp analytical eye.
“After the game when Ajax eliminated us, I played little or not at all. When we got in the car, she didn’t hold back: ‘Why are you passing it? Why didn’t you shoot? Why didn’t you run on this play?’” Valverde recalled with a smile.
The 26-year-old has become a fan favorite at the Santiago Bernabéu, known for his work ethic, versatility, and unselfishness. From dominating the midfield to stepping up on the right wing during Real Madrid’s triumphant 2022 Champions League campaign, Valverde has epitomized the club’s fighting spirit.
While talent has undoubtedly been a part of his rise, it is his resilience and grit that have solidified his place in Los Blancos’ history. With influences like Casemiro and Bonino shaping him, Valverde continues to shine as one of Real Madrid’s most indispensable players.
