Legendary Spanish goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has weighed in on the recent debate surrounding Federico Valverde, offering his support to the Uruguayan while acknowledging the midfielder’s mistake ...
Legendary Spanish goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has weighed in on the recent debate surrounding Federico Valverde, offering his support to the Uruguayan while acknowledging the midfielder’s mistake during the warm-up for Real Madrid’s match against Kairat Almaty.
Speaking on the programme Despierta San Francisco (h/t Mundo Deportivo), Canizares admitted Valverde’s approach was not ideal but made it clear that his professionalism and importance to Los Blancos should never be questioned.
“He wasn’t right the other day because at Madrid you have to pay close attention to details, and he’s wrong because he’s generating unnecessary debate,” Canizares explained.
The former Valencia shot-stopper quickly underlined that Valverde’s character and commitment far outweigh any isolated incident.
“There’s no doubting him. I wish his professionalism on any player; he’s an example.
“The one who is most harmed is the player more than Xabi Alonso,” he added, before concluding,
“Fede can demand much more than Rodrygo because their professional history is very different.”
Valverde clarifies his stance
Valverde did not play against Kairat Almaty. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
In recent days, much has been said about Valverde’s role in the team, prompting the midfielder to issue a statement on social media in an attempt to calm speculation.
At the centre of the discussion is his potential use as a right-back. With Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold sidelined through injury, Real Madrid are short of natural options in that position.
Given Valverde’s previous experience, many assumed he would step into the role. However, the 27-year-old clarified that while it is not his preferred position, he is always willing to play wherever the team needs him.
Despite this, Valverde was left out of the starting line-up against Kairat Almaty and did not feature at all in the match, which only added fuel to the ongoing debate.
Even so, Canizares’ comments, alongside Valverde’s own statement, suggest the matter is beginning to settle.
Category: General Sports
