Real Madrid’s Alonso plays down Valverde controversy

Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso has addressed media reports of unrest involving midfielder Federico Valverde, insisting there is no conflict or refusal by players to play in specific positions.

What sparked the controversy

• The debate flared up after Real Madrid’s 5-0 Champions League win against Kairat Almaty. Valverde was benched in that match, leading to speculation that he might have refused to play as a right back—a position he has expressed discomfort with.
• Valverde later made a public statement, emphasising that although he’s said he’s “not born to play right-back,” he has never refused any positional duty, and always made himself available for whatever the coach requires.

What Alonso said

• Alonso was quite clear: “No one has ever told me that they don’t want to play in a certain position. Everyone wants to play, but no one has said that to me.”
• He underlined that his decisions are made with the team in mind—balancing players’ workload, resting them when needed, and selecting based on what is best for upcoming matches.
• On Valverde, Alonso said he is fit and available for the next match.

What people are saying around it

• Some journalists have criticised Alonso, with one calling his treatment of Valverde “very vindictive,” especially over benching and positional deployments.
• Others say that this is being blown up by media speculation—Valverde’s public statement sought to clarify that he is committed, that he hasn’t refused to play, and that his relationship with the coach is good.

Bigger picture and implications

• This incident highlights the tension that can arise in elite squads where versatile players are asked to adapt to different roles for tactical or injury-related reasons. Valverde is known for his adaptability, but that doesn’t always make the transitions easy or universally popular.
• It also puts a spotlight on Alonso’s management style, especially under scrutiny following a few challenging results (e.g. the 5-2 derby loss to Atlético Madrid). Handling star players, their expectations, and media narratives becomes part of a manager’s job.
• How Alonso deals with rotation, player rest, and “man-management” will likely be under greater observation moving forward. The way he handles this Valverde issue could set a tone for how similar disputes are handled at Madrid this season.

Madrid