Former Real Madrid players weigh in on Federico Valverde’s situation at the club

Former Real Madrid players weigh in on Federico Valverde’s situation at the club Federico Valverde’s versatility has become a major talking point at Real Madrid, to the extent that he no longer has a clearly defined position on the pitch. The Madrid captain has primarily played in a double pivot alongside Aurelien Tchouameni, but Jose Mourinho has also deployed him at right-back on occasion. Now, as quoted by AS , several former Los Blancos stars have offered contrasting opinions on where the Uruguay international should play under the Portuguese manager. Fernando Hierro, Guti, Ivan Campo, Rafael Alkorta and Miguel Torres have discussed whether Valverde should continue in midfield or consider a more permanent move to the right flank. Guti and Torres see Valverde thriving on the right Valverde has previously expressed his reluctance to play at right-back, insisting in September 2025 that he was not born for the position. Nevertheless, Mourinho deployed him there against Villarreal, and the decision paid off when Valverde assisted Yan Diomande’s winning goal. Federico Valverde’s position has come under scrutiny at Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Guti believes the Uruguayan’s physical qualities are better suited to wider positions. “Defensive midfield is where he shines the least,” the former Madrid playmaker explained, highlighting Valverde’s problems with the final pass. Miguel Torres went further, suggesting Valverde could become one of the world’s best right-backs or wing-backs if he committed to the role. However, Alkorta disagreed, questioning whether Valverde possesses the defensive instincts required to excel consistently against dangerous wingers. Hierro also warned that repeatedly changing a player’s position can eventually affect his confidence. Ivan Campo took a different stance, arguing that Valverde remains important in midfield but needs greater support from his team-mates. Mourinho faces a difficult decision Valverde’s adaptability is undoubtedly valuable, particularly during periods when Madrid face defensive absences. However, there is a difference between using a midfielder at right-back occasionally and asking him to change positions permanently. Los Blancos should attempt to pair Valverde alongside a more creative midfielder like Bernardo Silva. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images) Valverde’s exceptional stamina and ability to cover ground make him effective on the flank, but those same qualities are equally important when Madrid need energy and intensity in midfield. His recent struggles alongside Aurelien Tchouameni should not automatically be interpreted as evidence that he needs a positional switch. The partnership’s limitations may have more to do with the balance of Madrid’s midfield than Valverde’s individual qualities. Playing the captain alongside a more creative midfielder like Bernardo Silva could help bring the best out of him. It remains to be seen how Mourinho uses Valverde in the coming months and whether a move to right-back is part of his plans.