Africa-Press – Lesotho. At Real Madrid, tension continues to mount between Xabi Alonso and some of his players. After recent discussions around Vinicius Jr and his stalled contract talks, it is now Fede Valverde who has become the center of controversy.
The Uruguayan midfielder has struggled with form this season and reportedly resisted playing as a right-back, a position Alonso needed him to cover due to injuries in the squad. His public statement — “I was not born to play full-back” — only fueled the issue, and Alonso benched him against Kairat Almaty.
Valverde responded strongly to the rumors through a message on his social media, denying that he ever refused to play. He admitted to poor performances but insisted on his commitment, reminding fans and critics that he has played through injuries without complaint. Despite this defense, reports from Spain suggest that his relationship with Alonso remains strained, as his role within the coach’s system seems undefined and leaves him uncomfortable on the pitch.
According to Cadena SER, Alonso views Valverde’s statement as overly dramatic, which has only deepened his frustration. Rodrygo has also expressed discontent over his tactical use, though privately, avoiding public conflict. With Vinicius Jr, Valverde, and Rodrygo all raising concerns in different ways, Alonso faces a delicate internal battle as he tries to balance authority, trust, and team harmony at Real Madrid.
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