Mourinho will not repeat Ancelotti's biggest mistake at Real Madrid

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14/10/26 21:00:00

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The latest news at Real Madrid is led by José Mourinho, who has decided to keep Fede Valverde, a 28-year-old midfielder, in central positions and not to use him regularly as a right winger or full-back. The coach believes that moving him to the wings diminishes his impact and does not want to repeat a formula previously used by Carlo Ancelotti.

The decision comes after the first eight official matches of the season, during which Valverde has played 654 minutes, scored one goal, and provided an assist. The Uruguayan has featured in all seven LaLiga fixtures, starting every game.

FEDE VALVERDE'S CELEBRATION MAKES NO SENSE HAHAHAHA

pic.twitter.com/RFOsOobMC6

— (fan) Real Madrid Fans 🤍 (@Madridismoreal) January 8, 2026

José Mourinho Defines Fede Valverde's Position

José Mourinho's plan involves using Valverde in midfield, primarily in the double pivot of his 4-2-3-1 formation. The coach believes that from that position, Valverde can contribute to the build-up play, cover ground, and showcase his shooting skills without being limited by the touchlines.

This role has been evident since the beginning of the season. Valverde has played 564 minutes in LaLiga, providing an assist and making 19 recoveries, while he completed the full 90 minutes in the Champions League against Inter, scoring one of Real Madrid's two goals.

Mourinho has also experimented with different partners for the Uruguayan. Eduardo Camavinga played alongside him in the pivot against Betis, and the return of Aurélien Tchouaméni has opened up the possibility of pairing them up in midfield once again.

The relationship between Tchouaméni and Valverde had raised doubts following issues from the previous season. However, Mourinho confirmed in September that the situation had been resolved and both could play together again.

Mourinho Changes the Formula Used by Carlo Ancelotti

This decision signifies a departure from past approaches. Carlo Ancelotti deployed Valverde in various positions during his tenure, including on the right wing and, when defensive injuries demanded, as a full-back.

Valverde had never hidden his preference for midfield. With Mourinho, this versatility is no longer the primary solution for filling in elsewhere, as the coach aims to keep the captain within the central structure.

The player's performances have reinforced this strategy. Against Inter, Valverde was named MVP after scoring the second goal in a 2-1 victory. Mourinho later emphasized that the goal was a result of the tactical setup during the match.

The coach also has specific alternatives for the wide areas. Brahim Díaz, Yan Diomandé, and Arda Güler have operated on the flanks at the start of the season, reducing the necessity to deploy Valverde there.

Real Madrid Now Without Valverde Due to Injury

José Mourinho's plans will have to wait a few weeks. Valverde suffered a grade three sprain in his left ankle during a 2-1 defeat against Atlético Madrid on September 20th.

Although he finished that match, subsequent medical tests revealed a complete ligament rupture. Initial estimations suggest a recovery period of around two to three weeks.

This injury comes after a start where Valverde had featured in all eight official games for the team. Real Madrid currently sits in fourth place in LaLiga, six points behind Barcelona, following losses against Betis and Atlético.

José Mourinho's next step will be to reintegrate Valverde and rebuild the midfield duo once he returns. His comeback should not alter the plan: the coach aims to keep him in midfield and prevent the specific needs of Real Madrid from pushing him back to positions he occupied during Carlo Ancelotti's era.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mourinho no repetirá el mayor error de Ancelotti en el Real Madrid