League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Transactions

Mourinho confirms Federico Valverde's midfield role for Real Madrid

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 12, 2026, 7:20 AM

Last updated Aug 12, 2026

Mourinho confirms Federico Valverde's midfield role for Real Madrid

Summary

Jose Mourinho has decided to keep Federico Valverde in a key midfield role for Real Madrid in the 2026/27 season. Valverde, who is set to captain the team against Deportivo La Coruña in the Teresa Herrera Trophy, will not be used as a right-back despite his versatility. Mourinho's choice emphasizes the importance of maintaining Valverde's influence in midfield, especially in light of strong competition from players like Eduardo Camavinga and Jude Bellingham. The coach prefers to find alternative solutions rather than transitioning Valverde to defense, given the recent acquisition of specialist right-back Denzel Dumfries.

Source Links

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Key Details

•Mourinho retains Valverde as a midfielder, rejecting full-back use.
•Valverde is expected to captain Real Madrid against Deportivo La Coruña.
•Mourinho values Valverde's versatility for tactical flexibility.
•Real Madrid's midfield includes Tchouameni, Silva, and Bellingham.

Latest Updates

7:20 AMYahoo Sports — Mourinho has already decided where Federico Valverde will play for Real Madrid – report

What they're saying

"
Jose Mourinho appears to have already made one important decision regarding Federico Valverde’s role at Real Madrid.Despite the Uruguayan’s ability to operate in several positions, the Portuguese ...
— Yahoo Sports

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