Real Madrid star laughs off Xabi Alonso rift claims – “I enjoyed it a lot”

In the last couple of weeks, there has been a lot of speculation surrounding Real Madrid pair Xabi Alonso and Federico Valverde. It was claimed that the pair have been involved in a rift, stemming from the latter’s alleged disinterest in filling in as a right-back while Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Valverde was not involved in last week’s Champions League victory over Kairat Almaty, which led to this speculation growing. However, it was quashed by the man himself, who also ended up starting at right-back in the weekend win against Villarreal – a result that sent Real Madrid back to the top of La Liga.

Alonso was full of praise for Valverde’s performance against Villarreal, and the Uruguayan midfielder, who has not been included in his national team squad for the ongoing international break, was asked on Tuesday about playing as a right-back, to which he gave a cheeky response, as per El Chiringuito (via Marca).

“I’m very happy. I enjoyed it a lot. It’s okay, it’s part of football (to play in other positions).”

Federico Valverde of Real Madrid looks on during the LaLiga EA Sports match between Real Madrid CF and RCD Espanyol. (Image via Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Valverde may continue at right-back for the time being

Valverde was significantly more impactful at right-back compared to Raul Asencio, who has played there on occasion in recent weeks. And there is a considerable chance that he continues in the position after the international break, given that Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold are unlikely to be able to start matches until El Clasico at the very earliest.

That would mean that Valverde may end continuing at right-back for the matches against Getafe (La Liga) and Juventus (Champions League), although he could be rested in one of those with the Barcelona showdown in mind.