Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde has become Zinedine Zidane’s second option alongside Casemiro and Toni Kroos this season. The Uruguayan has put up some quality numbers so far.
Speaking this week to Madrid official website, Valverde says he won’t forget people at Santiago Bernabeu who helped him as a great player.
“I’ll never forget the first time I played at the Bernabeu. To see the whole stadium decked out in white and them willing me on was incredible.” Valverde said.
“I’m a fighter who always works with grace and I’m in very good company at Real Madrid. There are people here who help you to develop massively as a player, but as a person too.
“There are no words to describe Zidane. Even when he says hello to you you’re already learning something from him. It’s really good that the gaffer believes in me and in all that a Uruguayan player has to fight to make it.” Valverde added.
Valverde made his way into the first team via the Castilla, a pathway that any club would like to see come to attainment. This season, he has participated in nine games, seven in La Liga and two in Champions League.
“My biggest strength is my vision and my tempo on the ball. I’m a player that will always try to give their best, regardless of where I’m asked to play, I’ve also got a lot of energy to get up and down the pitch. I get into both boxes, can defend and attack. You might say that I’m a bit temperamental out on the pitch.” Valverde said.
“When you join Real Madrid you have to be ready for everything. I really enjoyed my time with Castilla and I made the most of it. I learned that despite wearing a Real Madrid shirt, there are always challenges.” he added.
Last year, Valverde was initially called up to join the first team under sacked Julen Lopetegui, after returning from his loan spell at Deportivo.