Soccer coach with a thoughtful expression in the foreground while a group of Real Madrid players trains by running on the field — Xabi Alonso with his hand over his mouth and the team training in the background | Real Madrid Confidencial

Camara — Xabi Alonso with his hand over his mouth and the team training in the background | Real Madrid Confidencial

Xabi Alonso puts his hands on his head, 64 out of 70 this season: 'He needs a...'

An urgent decision has been made; the data have concerned the coaching staff

07/07/2025 17:05:00h

Borja Díaz

It's true that Xabi Alonso has just arrived at Real Madrid and has only had a few training sessions with the team. However, he has been very alert to what has happened in recent months with Ancelotti. In fact, he has drawn a very important conclusion regarding one of its players.

So far, Real Madrid have played 70 matches (70 partidos) this season across all competitions. They reached the finals of the Cup and the Super Cup and made it to the quarterfinals in the Champions League. In fact, only those 3 matches at the European level were left to play in a crazy schedule.

Two Real Madrid players in white uniforms hold hands on the field during a match.

Fede Valverde and Arda Güler shaking hands | Real Madrid Confidencial

However, Xabi has especially been amazed to discover that Fede Valverde has been on the field in 64 matches (64 partidos). The importance of the Uruguayan has been such that he has hardly missed anything. This is concerning because he needs to stop, since if he doesn't rest, his physical condition could be at risk.

We have seen Fede playing as a central midfielder, also as a pivot, and even as a right back. After Carvajal's injury and Lucas Vázquez's insecurity, Ancelotti put him there. The good feelings he showed led him to play several matches in that position.

A start to the season that doesn't invite optimism

The coaching staff agree that Valverde "needs a rest as soon as possible" after so many matches. It has certainly been a wake-up call to see such an overwhelming statistic. Although they are aware that the start of the season doesn't invite optimism with Fede.

A player from Real Madrid celebrates on the field with an expression of joy while holding an image of a tweet in the background.

Fede Valverde celebrating a goal | Real Madrid Confidencial

Very complicated months are coming to give the Uruguayan the rest he needs. It's important to keep in mind that when the Club World Cup ends, Bellingham is going to have shoulder surgery. That will keep him away from the field for several weeks.

Fede will have to wait a little longer before he can start getting more rest. This is something he will have to accept and that will require a specific plan for him. Above all, the goal is for him to have fewer minutes in less important matches so that other footballers can play.

➡️ First Team