Federico Valverde has denied suggestions that he refused to play for Real Madrid during their Champions League win against Kairat on Tuesday.
Speaking before Madrid’s 5-0 victory in Kazakhstan, Valverde said, ‘I wasn’t born to play as a full-back’, when asked if he would deputise on the right side of defence in the absence of Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who were both unavailable due to injury.
Valverde was left as an unused substitute against Kairat and was noticeably subdued as he came out last for the warm-up and skipped the pre-match rondo. The 27-year-old was also seen standing alone with his hands behind his back during the second half while Jude Bellingham and Eduardo Camavinga warmed up nearby.
The Uruguay international insists he maintains a ‘good relationship’ with Alonso and says he will ‘fight until the end’ to secure his place in Madrid’s starting line-up.
‘I’ve read several articles that are damaging to me,’ Valverde said in a statement on Wednesday.
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‘I know I’ve had bad games; I’m aware of that. I’m not hiding anything, and I’m showing my face.
‘I’m truly sad. They can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play.
‘I’ve given everything and more for this club. I’ve played through fractures and injuries, and I’ve never complained or asked for a break.
‘I have a good relationship with the coach, which makes me feel confident in telling him which position I like most on the field, but I’ve always, always let him know that I’m available to perform anywhere, on any trip, and in every game.
‘I’ve put my heart and soul into this club and I will continue to do so. Even though sometimes it’s not enough or I’m not playing as I would like.
‘I swear on my pride that I will never give up and I will fight until the end, playing wherever I am.’
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