Ancelotti makes final decision on Real Madrid ace’s fixed position – report | OneFootball

Federico Valverde is one of the most fundamental players to the current Real Madrid team and the impact he brings to the field irrespective of his position is a testament to his versatility.

The Uruguayan star has been a midfield mainstay for Los Blancos for a long time now, but the shortage of quality options at right-back has led to Carlo Ancelotti deploying him in the position on several occasions lately.

Notably, Valverde’s last game as a midfielder before last night’s win over Villarreal was over a month ago.

Future is clear

As relayed by AS in a recent update, Valverde’s ability to play in both positions creates a serious dilemma for Ancelotti as he plans the season ahead.

Ancelotti sees Valverde as a midfielder. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

The Uruguayan, after all, is a very reliable defender but deploying him at the back leaves a void in midfield that is hard to fill. If Valverde plays in midfield, however, there is suddenly a gap in defence given Lucas Vazquez’s inconsistency.

The Italian gaffer, however, is clear with his stance over Valverde’s situation – the player will play as a right-back on important nights but he is a midfielder first and will remain that for all other purposes.

In the long run, Real Madrid see him as a midfielder only and he could well return 100% to the middle of the field once Los Blancos recover Dani Carvajal or sign a new reliable name.

After all, Valverde’s performance at Estadi de La Ceramica last night was a testament to what he brings to the field.

In 90 minutes, the 26 years old completed 83% of his passes, had one shot on target and won 100% of the five ground duels he attempted.