Real Madrid expect key midfielder to step up as a leader in Carvajal’s absence | OneFootball

According to a report from AS, Federico Valverde is set to assume a more prominent leadership role at Real Madrid, with the club acknowledging him as their captain on the pitch, both with and without the armband, in Dani Carvajal’s absence.

The season-ending injury to Carvajal has left Real Madrid without not only a fundamental player and arguably the world’s best right-back, but also a crucial dressing-room leader.

However, as one door closes, another opens, and Real Madrid still have several strong characters in their ranks, with Valverde now expected to step into the spotlight.

Valverde expected to step up

Valverde started the season as Real Madrid’s fourth captain behind Luka Modric, Carvajal, and Lucas Vazquez.

While he now officially moves to third in the hierarchy with Carvajal out for the season, there is a growing sentiment within the club that his natural leadership qualities will eventually make him the de facto primary captain.

Set for more responsibility. (Photo by Gonzalo Arroyo Moreno/Getty Images)

Since joining the Merengues’ first team in 2018, Valverde’s role has evolved from a substitute to becoming one of the most indispensable players under Carlo Ancelotti.

The Uruguayan international’s trophy cabinet already boasts 13 titles, including two Champions League and three La Liga titles.

Valverde’s physical prowess, box-to-box capability, and goal-scoring ability make him particularly crucial to this Real Madrid outfit.

Having tied him down to a contract until 2029, Los Blancos consider him untransferable despite interest from across Europe.

The Uruguayan’s rise to leadership represents more than just filling the void left by Carvajal’s injury. Instead, it marks the natural evolution of a player who has grown from a promising talent to an essential figure in Real Madrid’s present and future plans.