<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a></strong>‘s preparations for their Copa del Rey semi-final first leg against Real Sociedad have been dealt a significant blow by a triple injury crisis. <strong>Star players <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/">Kylian Mbappé</a>, Federico Valverde, and Thibaut Courtois will all miss the crucial match</strong> at the Reale Arena, leaving manager Carlo Ancelotti with a considerable selection headache. </p>



<p>The absences underscore the intense physical demands placed on players and the challenges of maintaining squad fitness throughout a demanding season.</p>



<p>Kylian Mbappé’s absence was initially presented as a potential travel issue in Ancelotti’s press conference. However, the club later confirmed that Mbappé underwent a <strong>dental procedure and is experiencing significant pain</strong>, ruling him out of the Real Sociedad game. </p>



<p>While the issue is not football-related, it nevertheless leaves Real Madrid without a key attacking player. <strong>The club reported that Mbappé had a<em> “very bad night”</em></strong> due to pain and lack of sleep, resulting in the decision to give him rest.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/02/26075525/Federico-Valcerde-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-556932" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>Valverde’s continued muscle issues</h2>



<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/federico-valverde/">Federico Valverde</a></strong>‘s absence is due to a <strong>persistent muscle problem in his left thigh</strong>. He played through discomfort in the second leg against Manchester City, receiving an injection for pain relief. While not a serious injury, the club has decided to prioritize his recovery. </p>



<p><strong>He will be given a full week of rest to ensure full fitness for the subsequent matches</strong>, especially the highly anticipated “Euroderby” (match against Atlético Madrid). This highlights the pragmatic approach taken by the coaching staff to prioritize long-term player fitness.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vinicius-sparks-concerns-at-real-madrid-leaves-training-injured-worrying-ancelotti/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20250225_WST_556833_Vinicius-Jr.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Real Madrid&apos;s Vinicius Jr. withdrew from training on Monday due to a foot injury, raising serious concerns about his availability for the Copa del Rey semi-final against Real Sociedad.  The injury is a significant blow to Real Madrid, given Vinicius&apos;s crucial role in their attack and their demanding fixture list.  The extent of the injury remains unclear.
" title="Vinícius sparks concerns at Real Madrid: Leaves training injured, worrying Ancelotti" publication_id="WST#/news/vinicius-sparks-concerns-at-real-madrid-leaves-training-injured-worrying-ancelotti/"></div>


<p>Goalkeeper <strong>Thibaut Courtois will also miss the match due to a minor knee problem</strong>, described as an overload. While the injury is not serious, it requires careful management. </p>



<p>With Courtois unavailable, <strong>Andriy Lunin was initially expected to start.</strong> However, with Courtois unable to make the bench, Ancelotti has called up Fran González and Sergio Mestre to provide goalkeeping support for the game. This further highlights the club’s injury problems.</p>


Kylian Mbappé left out of Real Madrid's squad for Copa del Rey

Kylian Mbappé left out of Real Madrid's squad for Copa del Rey - World Soccer Talk

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<p><strong>Real Madrid</strong> is gearing up to face <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">FC Barcelona</a></strong> in the <strong>Spanish Super Cup</strong> final at King Abdullah Sports City in Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The match offers both teams a chance to claim their first title of the year. Ahead of the highly anticipated clash, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/federico-valverde/">Federico Valverde</a></strong> reflected on Real Madrid’s crushing 4-0 defeat to Barcelona earlier this season, <strong>admitting it was a moment that deeply impacted the team</strong>.</p>



<p>Back in October, <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a> hosted the first El Clasico of the 2024-25 season at the Santiago Bernabeu</strong>. After a goalless first half, Barcelona unleashed a dominant second-half performance, netting four goals to seal a stunning <strong>0-4 victory</strong>. For Real Madrid, it was a turning point, and Valverde acknowledged how that result served as a wake-up call.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>There’s a strong sense of wanting revenge after that 0-4 result. It was hard to sleep that night because we didn’t expect to lose like that</strong></em>,” Valverde said during a pre-match press conference ahead of the <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/spanish-super-cup/">Spanish Super Cup</a></strong> final.</p>



<p>The Uruguayan midfielder provided further insight into how the defeat unfolded: “<em>In the first half, we had chances to score, but in the second half, they came out stronger, and we didn’t do things right. <strong>That gave us the drive and strength to move forward and become the team we are today</strong></em>.”</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/11195740/Federico-Valverde-Real-Madrid-FC-Barcelona-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-548339" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fede-valverde-and-jude-bellingham-suffer-injury-scare-ahead-of-spanish-super-cup-final-against-barcelona-will-they-be-ready-for-final/"><strong>Valverde and Jude Bellingham both suffered adductor strains during Real Madrid’s semifinal win over Mallorca</strong></a>. However, head coach <strong>Carlo Ancelotti</strong> is optimistic about their availability for the final. “<em><strong>Despite the overloads, I believe both will have no problem playing in the final</strong></em>,” said Ancelotti, expressing confidence in his key players ahead of Sunday’s showdown.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/vinicius-takes-inspiration-from-kylian-mbappe-real-madrid-stars-bold-move-into-portuguese-soccer-with-storied-club/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20250111_WST_548253_Defeat-accepted-Carlo-Ancelotti-settles-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Vinicius-positions-in-Real-Madrids-line-up-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Real Madrid star Vinicius&nbsp;is reportedly close to entering the world of soccer club ownership, following the path of his teammate and fellow superstar Kylian Mbappe. 
" title="Vinicius takes inspiration from Kylian Mbappe: Real Madrid star&apos;s bold move into Portuguese soccer with storied club" publication_id="WST#/news/vinicius-takes-inspiration-from-kylian-mbappe-real-madrid-stars-bold-move-into-portuguese-soccer-with-storied-club/"></div>


<h2>Valverde defends Mbappe after offside struggles</h2>



<p>One of the talking points from the last El Clasico was <strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/">Kylian Mbappe</a>’s struggles with Barcelona’s offside trap</strong>. The French forward was caught offside eight times and had two goals disallowed. Despite this, Valverde remains confident in Mbappe’s abilities.</p>



<p>“<em><strong>I can’t give lessons to a player who has already won a World Cup and played in another final</strong>. He’s won everything in France and is one of the best in the world—he knows what he needs to do</em>,” he reassured. “<em><strong>We’re concerned about the offside trap because they’re executing it well</strong>, but we have to be cautious to ensure their defenders can’t stop us</em>,” he added.</p>



<p>Mbappe has shown significant improvement since the start of the season and has delivered in clutch moments for Real Madrid. The Frenchman scored in both the <strong>UEFA Super Cup</strong> final against <strong>Atalanta</strong> and the <strong>Intercontinental Cup</strong> final against <strong>Pachuca</strong>. Now, he’ll look to extend his streak in finals with a standout performance against Barcelona.</p>


'We couldn’t sleep that night': Valverde makes huge admission on Real Madrid’s 4-0 loss to Barcelona

Real Madrid’s Valverde makes huge admission after 0-4 loss to Barcelona: 'We couldn’t sleep that night' - World Soccer Talk

Real Madrid’s Valverde makes admission after 0-4 loss to Barcelona: 'We couldn’t sleep that night'

Real Madrid’s Valverde makes huge admission after 0-4 loss to Barcelona: 'We couldn’t sleep that night'

<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a>‘s journey to the 2025 Spanish Super Cup final</strong>&nbsp;has not been without drama. Their 3-0 semi-final victory over Mallorca was overshadowed by injury concerns for several key players, including<strong> Jude Bellingham </strong>and<strong> Fede Valverde. </strong>The two players, pivotal to Los Blancos’ setup, suffered knocks that <strong>cast doubt on their availability</strong> for the much-anticipated showdown against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a>.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/jude-bellingham/">Bellingham</a>, who opened the scoring in the semi-final with a clinical finish in the 63rd minute, was seen struggling with a muscular issue late in the game. Similarly, Valverde, ever-reliable in midfield, was substituted in the 75th minute due to discomfort. Manager Carlo Ancelotti provided clarity on their situations, stating:&nbsp;<em>“Both players experienced adductor strains. The unexpected heat during the game certainly played a role.”</em></p>



<p>With just two days separating the semi-final from the final, the uncertainty surrounding these two stars adds an air of mystery to the clash.</p>



<h2>Will Bellingham and Valverde be ready?</h2>



<p>Amid the tension, reports indicate optimism within the Madrid camp. Insider sources suggest both players are likely to recover in time for Sunday’s final. Ancelotti expressed confidence, saying:&nbsp;<em><strong>“Despite the overloads, I believe both will have no problem playing in the final.”</strong></em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/10155912/bellingham-injury-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="bellingham injury" class="wp-image-548176" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>Bellingham’s form has been electric, with seven goals in his last nine appearances, making him one of Real Madrid’s most influential players this season. His semi-final performance was another testament to his growing stature, as he calmly slotted home after a sequence involving Rodrygo and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/"><strong>Kylian Mbappe</strong></a>.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/federico-valverde/">Valverde</a>, too, has been indispensable. The Uruguayan midfielder has contributed seven goals and three assists in 28 appearances this season, highlighting his importance in both attack and defense.</p>



<h2>Real Madrid’s injury challenges</h2>



<p>The injury concerns aren’t limited to Bellingham and Valverde. Aurelien Tchouameni, who suffered a head injury in the semi-final, was <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/aurelien-tchouameni-provides-injury-update-after-suffering-concussion-will-he-be-ready-for-spanish-super-cup-final-against-barcelona/">substituted as a precaution</a>. However, Ancelotti reassured fans, stating:&nbsp;<em><strong>“Tchouameni is fine. It was just a precautionary move after a heavy blow to the head.”</strong></em>&nbsp;Luka Modric, who <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/the-strange-reason-luka-modric-will-miss-the-supercopa-de-espana-semifinals-with-real-madrid/">missed the semi-final due to illness</a>, is also expected to return for the final.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/10155903/valverde-injury-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="valverde injury" class="wp-image-548175" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<p>Having all four players available will be a massive boost for Real Madrid, who are chasing their third trophy of the season after winning the UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Intercontinental Cup.</p>


Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham suffer injury scare ahead of Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona: Will they be ready for final?

Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham suffer injury scare ahead of Spanish Super Cup final against Barcelona: Will they be ready for final? - World Soccer Talk

<p><strong><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a> manager Carlo Ancelotti has a wealth of talent at his disposal, but one player stands out for his remarkable versatility: <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/federico-valverde/">Fede Valverde</a></strong>. Ancelotti likened his squad to a toolbox, with Valverde being the <em>“Swiss Army Knife,”</em> <strong>capable of performing almost any role</strong> with exceptional skill and intensity. </p>



<p>The only question for the coaching staff is whether Valverde could also excel as a goalkeeper. <strong>Considering his disciplined playing style, however, it seems highly likely he could succeed in any position</strong>.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlo-ancelotti">Ancelotti</a> recently praised Valverde’s performance at right-back, stating, <em>“After Carvajal and Lucas, he’s the best right-back in the world. The problem is that he can play in many positions on the field, <strong>and the problem for the coach is choosing the best position for the team</strong>. He has incredible speed.”</em> </p>



<p>This versatility, a <em><strong>“blessed problem,”</strong></em> <strong>is essential to Real Madrid’s tactical flexibility</strong>. Valverde’s consistent and coordinated play is crucial as the team’s glue, a role often overlooked but vital to overall success. In recent games, due to injuries to other players, <strong>Valverde capably filled the right-back position</strong>, showcasing his defensive strength and attacking prowess.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><div><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://media.worldsoccertalk.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/16023007/Federico-Valverde-1200x675-1200x675.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-541377" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></div></figure>



<h2>Valverde’s unbeatable consistency</h2>



<p>Valverde is the type of player every manager dreams of. <strong>He consistently performs well in multiple positions and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to the team</strong>. He currently ranks second in minutes played this season (1,527’), just behind Rüdiger. </p>



<p>His resilience and ability to contribute across different roles are remarkable. <strong>With four goals and two assists in 18 games</strong>, Valverde has proven to be an invaluable asset for Real Madrid.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/real-madrids-vinicius-juinor-injured-and-out-for-champions-league-clash-against-liverpool/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20241125_WST_541235_Vinicius-Junior-injered-1.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="Real Madrid is facing a significant injury crisis, with several key players currently sidelined.  The absence of Vinicius Jr. due to a hamstring injury is the latest setback for manager Carlo Ancelotti, who is already dealing with injuries to David Alaba, Thibaut Courtois, and others.
" title="Real Madrid&apos;s Vinicius Junior injured and out for Champions League clash against Liverpool" publication_id="WST#/news/real-madrids-vinicius-juinor-injured-and-out-for-champions-league-clash-against-liverpool/"></div>


<p>Valverde is also a leader in the dressing room, increasingly influential in team decisions. He achieved a long-held ambition upon joining Real Madrid in 2016: becoming a regular starter. <em>“It’s something very special, <strong>I am very grateful to the captains I’ve had like Ramos, Karim, Carvajal, Modric and others</strong>. They gave us codes and the way to be to the young people that come from other parts of the world,”</em> he stated.</p>



<h2>Anfield return and tactical options</h2>



<p><strong>Valverde’s versatility presents Ancelotti with interesting options for the upcoming match against Liverpool </strong>at Anfield. Valverde previously played right-back at Anfield in April 2021, during the Champions League quarter-finals. Ancelotti may employ a similar strategy this time,<strong> even with Lucas Vázquez now available, highlighting Valverde’s importance to the team</strong>.</p>


        <div class="wp_fsn_relatedlinks" use="ALSO" link="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/carlo-ancelotti-recovers-important-player-ahead-of-real-madrid-game-against-liverpool/" image="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https%3A%2F%2Fimages.worldsoccertalk.com%2Fwebp%2Ffull%2FWST_20241125_WST_541275_Carlo-Ancelotti-Real-Madrid-2.webp&amp;width=200&amp;height=200" excerpt="With several players sidelined due to injury for the Champions League clash against Liverpool, Carlo Ancelotti welcomes back an important Real Madrid player.
" title="Carlo Ancelotti recovers important player ahead of Real Madrid game against Liverpool" publication_id="WST#/news/carlo-ancelotti-recovers-important-player-ahead-of-real-madrid-game-against-liverpool/"></div>


<p>Kylian Mbappé, speaking to the press, further underscored Valverde’s importance: <em>“He’s a very important player. When you talk about players, you talk about others that we see a little more, but Fede is very important. <strong>People don’t talk about him much, but he’s very important for us</strong>. He has won many titles here, and I hope he continues to do so.”</em> Valverde’s reliability and influence have solidified his status as an indispensable part of Real Madrid’s success.</p>


Carlo Ancelotti discusses Fede Valverde's versatility: 'It's a blessing and a challenge for any coach'

Carlo Ancelotti discusses Fede Valverde's versatility: 'It's a blessing and a challenge for any coach' - World Soccer Talk

<p>After a lackluster previous season, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/premier-league-tv-schedule/">Liverpool</a> is focusing on a roster restock. Thus, a major transfer target who may completely revamp Liverpool’s midfield has just surfaced. Having lost Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and James Milner on free transfers, the Reds are aiming to add at least one more midfielder to their roster this summer.</p>



<p>The midfield was a cause for concern at Anfield this past season. Consequently, Jürgen Klopp sought a number of players to bring in. Coming off from an outstanding season with Brighton and Argentina—with whom he won the World Cup in the winter—Alexis Mac Allister has already arrived in a $44 million transfer.</p>



<p>However, the remaining midfield alternatives Klopp has are aging and may not be as effective as they once were. With veterans like Jordan Henderson, Thiago Alcantara, and Fabinho entering their 30s soon, Liverpool has a great chance to establish their next successful period.</p>



<h2>Liverpool plan to table in new $97m bid for Federico Valverde</h2>



<p>That’s why, according to the rumor mill, Liverpool is gearing up to make a move for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> star Federico Valverde. Reports surfaced earlier this month that the Reds had a $64 million deal for the Uruguayan midfielder rejected.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="VALVERDE WHAT HAVE YOU JUST DONE!!! 😲" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iJX4AXwJKt8?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Catalan news site El Nacional reports that Liverpool is preparing a fresh offer of roughly $97m. The arrival of Bellingham, the extended deals given to Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and Dani Ceballos, and the club’s refusal to trade Aurelien Tchouameni despite his own difficulties getting into the squad all make it seem like Valverde’s minutes at Madrid would be short.</p>



<h5>What Valverde would bring to Anfield</h5>



<p>Even though he’s young, at 24, Valverde would offer a plethora of knowledge from success. Valverde featured in the 2022-23 La Liga Team of the Season. In his young career, the Uruguayan won two Spanish league titles and a Champions League trophy.&nbsp;</p>



<p>Klopp can use his adaptability. Valverde scored 12 goals this season from the middle of the field.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO &amp; Pressinphoto</em></p>


Liverpool preparing monster bid to tempt Federico Valverde

There are rumors that Liverpool are planning an increased astronomical offer for Real Madrid's Federico Valverde.

<p>Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde could earn a suspension as high as 12 games. The potential ban comes from a <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/real-madrid-espreal_madrid/story/4919485/real-madrid-federico-valverde-punches-villarreal-alex-baena-after-laliga-loss-sources" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">punch he threw</a> at Villarreal’s Alex Baena after Baena and the Yellow Submarine won at the Santiago Bernabeu. At points throughout the game, Valverde was visibly frustrated with the physical altercations from the Villarreal player.</p>



<p>Yet, as a result of the violent conduct and the fact that it came after the game, the Uruguayan could miss a massive chunk of time. Fortunately for Real Madrid fans, the ban may not kick in for a month. </p>



<p>According to <em>The Athletic</em>, which identified the potential suspension duration, the Consejo Superior Deportes’s (CSD) antiviolence commission will review the incident. The CSD may not reach a conclusion until the heart of May. Consequently, Valverde could be available for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/benzema-blasts-barcelona-real-through-to-copa-del-rey-final-20230405-WST-426892.html">Copa del Rey Final</a> on May 6. </p>



<h2>Breaking down a potential Valverde suspension</h2>



<p>According to The Athletic, there are three potential outcomes. On one hand, the CSD could hand out a punishment itself. This is where the longest possible suspension for Valverde comes from. This can lead to a ban from all sports venues for between one and six months. Hence, there is a possible 12-game suspension.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Federico Valverde punched Alex Baena after Madrid&apos;s defeat to Villarreal, sources have confirmed to ESPN.<br><br>Valverde reacted angrily to alleged remarks that Baena made about his unborn child, sources said. Valverde and his partner Mina Bonino had a miscarriage scare in February. <a href="https://t.co/0Q8Xr8Dtsq">pic.twitter.com/0Q8Xr8Dtsq</a></p>— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ESPNFC/status/1644857644228722688?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 9, 2023</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<p>The CSD could, however, hand the issue to the Spanish FA, citing extraordinary circumstances. In this instance, the suspension could be between two to four matches. This is the case where a delay in suspension could happen. The Spanish FA would need time to deliberate on its own. As a result, Valverde would likely be available for the Copa del Rey Final in early May.</p>



<p>Finally, the midfielder may not receive a ban at all. In fact, the Spanish FA told <em>The Athletic</em> that it does not believe Valverde will pick up a suspension.</p>



<h5>Criminal charges still possible for midfielder</h5>



<p>Alex Baena decided to press criminal charges against Valverde. The club confirmed the news not long after news of the punch broke. Baena denied accusations that he commented on Valverde’s family, a report that surfaced after the game in relation to a miscarriage scare from Valverde’s partner, Mina Bonino.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / NurPhoto</em></p>


Valverde could get 12-game suspension for punching player

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde could earn a suspension as high as 12 games. The potential ban comes from a punch he threw at Villarreal's Alex Baena after Baena and the Yellow Submarine won at the Santiago Bernabeu. At points throughout the game, Valverde was visibly frustrated with the physical altercations from the Villarreal player. [&hellip;]

Federico Valverde could face a suspension between four and 12 games for punching a Villarreal player after their match.

<p class="has-text-align-left">The elegance and talent of <a href="https://www.planetfootball.com/nostalgia/things-normal-players-dont-tribute-alvaro-recoba-inter/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Alvaro Recoba</a> and Enzo Francescoli. The nastiness and pragmatism of Paulo Montero and Diego Godin. The ruthlessness and dynamism of Diego Forlan, Luis Suarez and Edison Cavani. This is how Uruguay have been portrayed in recent decades. </p>



<p class="has-text-align-left">The back line and the forward line – that’s were Uruguay have been most potent in recent times. Not the middle of the park.</p>



<h2>The new Uruguay under Valverde and Bentancur</h2>



<p class="has-text-align-left">The central midfield duo of Egidio Arevalo and Diego Perez that started the victorious <a href="https://www.auf.org.uy/copa-america-2011/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2011 Copa America</a> final against Paraguay screams grit and determination with little flair and adventure. It’s no surprise that they scored just two goals (both Perez’s) from a combined 179 international caps. Their <em>raison d’être</em> was simple: win the ball and give it to the talented guys ahead of them. They implemented their assignment admirably but the current Uruguay midfield promises so much more.</p>



<p class="has-text-align-left">In the coming weeks, Uruguay manager Diego Alonso is expected to field both <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/tottenham-tv-schedule/">Tottenham Hotspur</a>‘s Rodrigo Bentancur and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a>‘s Federico Valverde in either a central pairing or in a midfield three with either Lucas Torreira or Matias Vecino. Both started all four World Cup qualifying games that Uruguay played under Alonso’s stewardship and the last two friendly matches against Iran and Canada.</p>



<h2>Magic of Bentancur</h2>



<p>While this will be Valverde’s first appearance in a World Cup, a 21-year-old Bentancur started all of Uruguay’s matches in Russia 2018. Since then, Bentancur’s position and style of play have evolved from a raw box-to-box and attacking midfielder to a more conservative and creative role in the centre of the park. </p>



<p>In 31 Premier League matches for Tottenham, Bentancur supplied 6 assists despite the deep role he is deployed in alongside Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg. His <a href="https://www.premierleague.com/players/22802/Rodrigo-Bentancur/stats?co=1&amp;se=489" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">stats</a> during this Premier League season reveal a hard-working midfielder who wins possession and finds his team-mates with short, accurate passes. </p>



<p>His two goals against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/tottenham-beat-ten-man-leeds-with-thrilling-second-half-comeback-20221112-WST-408056.html">Leeds United</a> in the latest round of Premier League matches also showcased his goal threat. </p>



<h2>Valverde rises to the top</h2>



<p>After joining Real Madrid in 2017, Valverde’s stock exploded after his breakthrough 2019-2020 campaign. He earned the reputation of a no-nonsense midfield terrier after earning a red card for his blatant tackle on Atletico Madrid’s Alvaro Morata who was through on goal in the 2020 Spanish Super Cup final. His game is so much more than this.</p>



<p>Despite not registering a single competitive goal domestically and in Europe last season, his manager at Real Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti, admitted to telling Valverde that he will tear up his coaching license if the Uruguayan didn’t score ten goals this time round. Lo and behold and Valverde already has eight goals to his name this season.</p>



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<div class="ck-youtube"><iframe loading="lazy" title="PING PONG FEDE VALVERDE Y RODRIGO BENTANCUR" width="500" height="375" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/5h3NxY7kqvE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
</div></figure>



<p>Ancelotti has built on Zinedine Zidane’s work and polished this rough gem into one of the finest midfielders in Europe. His performance against Liverpool in the 2021/22 Champions League Final was immense and showed his versatility and game-winning attributes. He started on the right side of a front three providing the assist for Vinicius Junior’s winning goal and nullifying Andy Robertson’s threat from Liverpool’s left hand side. </p>



<p>With six seasons playing in the top leagues in Europe under their belt, as well as the experience of two Copa Americas since 2018, Qatar offers the perfect stage for Valverde and Bentancur to shine. Despite their young age (Valverde is 24 while Bentancur is a year older), they do not lack international experience with 95 international caps between them. </p>



<p>With a strong forward line and a pragmatic defense, the Valverde-Bentancur partnership can elevate <em>La Celeste </em>as one of the dark horses of the World Cup.</p>



<p><em>Photo credit: IMAGO / Xinhua</em></p>


Valverde and Bentancur: Uruguay's star duo in midfield

We examine Uruguay's midfield partnership of Valverde and Bentancur that may well make La Celeste the dark horses in the World Cup.

Valverde and Bentancur: Uruguay's star duo in midfield - World Soccer Talk

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