Threat of "bench-warming" at Real Madrid

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15/09/26 21:30:00

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Fede Valverde remains one of the best players at Real Madrid for José Mourinho, but his performance is starting to draw criticism after the 1-0 defeat against Real Betis in the fourth round of LaLiga. The Uruguayan continues to be a key player for the Portuguese coach, although there are already voices warning that his position could become less secure if he doesn't increase his influence on the ball.

The match at La Cartuja once again put the Real Madrid midfield under scrutiny. Madrid dominated for large periods but failed to find the net, resulting in their first league defeat of the season, which halted the team's strong start under Mourinho.

This video of Valverde is circulating a lot. It's nothing new. Anyone with common sense knows that Fede, as much as he wants to, doesn't and will never have the qualities to play as a holding midfielder.

He's a player who needs to run and exploit spaces to shine, that's why...

— Madrid Sports (@MadridSports_) September 5, 2026

Fede Valverde faces criticism for his involvement on the ball

The journalist Albert Ortega from El Confidencial has been particularly critical of Valverde for his role in the build-up play. His criticism revolves around the fact that the Uruguayan is relying too much on players like Arda Güler or Eduardo Camavinga for ball progression, despite playing in a central position within the system.

The contrast with Güler was clear against Betis. The Turk created seven chances and recovered five balls before being substituted, a decision Mourinho justified due to the risk of a second yellow card. This further fuels the debate on which midfielders are taking on more creative responsibility in this season's kickoff.

For Valverde, the criticism is particularly significant given his hierarchical position. The Uruguayan has served as captain and was instrumental in the last Champions League, with impactful performances such as the hat-trick against Manchester City in March. However, in this season's early stages, his form is below expectations, making him one of the most disappointing players at Real Madrid.

José Mourinho continues to view Valverde as a key piece

Despite external criticisms, José Mourinho has shown no signs of wavering in his trust in Fede Valverde. The Portuguese coach regards him as one of the most competitive players within the squad and relies on him as a focal point in the midfield.

The current situation contrasts sharply with that of the summer. Back then, a significant offer could have triggered discussions of a possible departure, especially after a previous season marked by ups and downs and a lackluster World Cup with Uruguay.

Mourinho's arrival changed that scenario. The coach opted to keep Valverde and enhanced his internal role, within a context where Real Madrid made several squad changes and parted ways with players like Dani Ceballos, whom Mourinho informed was not part of his plans.

The upcoming LaLiga stretch will test his response

The internal competition leaves no room for complacency. Güler is gaining prominence, Camavinga remains an option, and Mourinho can shuffle the pieces depending on the opponent and the team's physical condition.

The upcoming segment of the season will gauge Fede Valverde's reaction to the criticism. Real Madrid continues to have full confidence in him, but the demands set by José Mourinho require the Uruguayan to regain a greater presence in the build-up if he wishes to unequivocally hold onto his starting position in LaLiga and in Europe.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Amenaza de "banquillazo" en el Real Madrid