Real Madrid cannot understand why media are trying to tarnish Fede Valverde character – reports

Real Madrid find themselves puzzled and frustrated as fresh reports from Spain suggest that sections of the media are deliberately trying to damage the reputation of Federico Valverde. The Uruguayan midfielder, who has become one of the pillars of Los Blancos in recent years, is once again at the center of controversy — and the club cannot comprehend why.

According to Cope, rumors circulated widely after Real Madrid’s recent clash with Kairat, claiming Valverde had refused to play at right-back. With Trent Alexander-Arnold unavailable due to injury and Dani Carvajal both suspended and sidelined, speculation quickly grew that Xabi Alonso had asked Valverde to fill in defensively but was turned down.

Instead, Alonso fielded Raul Asencio in the role. What shocked many within Real Madrid was not the tactical choice itself, but how swiftly the media ran with the narrative that Valverde had declined to play. Even after the match, journalists pushed the subject during Alonso’s press conference, forcing the manager to directly address it.

Alonso firmly denied the accusations, stressing that the decision to bench Valverde was tactical and had nothing to do with unwillingness. “It was my choice,” Alonso clarified. “Fede is always available. If the game had demanded it, he would have played without hesitation.” Despite the statement, the media storm did not die down.

The controversy escalated further when reports suggested Valverde himself was growing unhappy with Alonso’s system, particularly the use of certain players in unconventional positions. Both Valverde and Vinícius Jr. were mentioned as being discontent with aspects of Alonso’s tactical plans. However, the Uruguayan midfielder quickly broke his silence to set the record straight.

In a heartfelt public statement, Valverde dismissed the rumors with conviction. “They can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play,” he declared. For a player whose reputation has long been built on discipline, versatility, and selfless commitment to the badge, the allegations were deeply hurtful.

Real Madrid have stood firmly behind their midfielder, emphasizing that Valverde is among the most professional and loyal players in the squad. The club cannot understand how such stories gain traction, particularly when his track record shows he has often been deployed out of position for the good of the team. Whether in midfield, as a winger, or covering defensively, Valverde has always delivered without complaint.

For the club’s hierarchy, this situation is viewed as part of a broader campaign aimed at destabilizing Real Madrid. There is a growing belief within the dressing room and the board that the media are seizing any opportunity to pit players against one another, magnify harmless decisions, and disrupt the harmony Alonso is trying to build.

Supporters, too, have voiced their frustration at what they perceive to be unfair targeting. Many fans argue that Valverde embodies the fighting spirit of Real Madrid, pointing to his relentless running, versatility, and never-say-die attitude. To them, the suggestion that he would refuse to play is not only false but insulting.

Beyond this controversy, Valverde continues to focus on his football. His recent performances remain key for Real Madrid both domestically and in Europe, with his energy and ability to cover ground seen as indispensable. For Alonso, Valverde represents the type of player he wants in his team: adaptable, determined, and team-oriented.

While the rumors may linger, both Valverde and Real Madrid appear determined not to let them fester. The midfielder’s statement has already reassured many supporters, and the club’s internal backing makes it clear that they consider the issue closed. Still, the incident highlights the increasingly hostile environment surrounding Los Blancos, where even their most loyal players are not safe from media scrutiny.

As the season progresses, the bigger test will be whether Valverde and Real Madrid can block out the noise and continue their pursuit of silverware. For now, what remains certain is that within the Santiago Bernabéu walls, Valverde’s character and commitment are not in question — no matter what the headlines suggest.