The Arsenal experience and self-doubt: How Federico Valverde became a Real Madrid legend

Valverde’s role in the first match against City was one of coach Alvaro Arbeloa’s most important decisions.

Against Jeremy Doku, he was Trent’s best friend Alexander-Arnold, protecting the right-back without sacrificing his freedom to get forward. The plan relied on long passes from goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois to the right flank where Valverde could attack the space behind City’s high line.

The first goal came exactly this way. Courtois raced wide, Valverde won the duel with Nico O’Reilly, headed into the penalty area and finished the ball. City needed to look after Vinicius, who was mostly anonymous, but instead Real Madrid opened the game through Valverde at the other end.

For Arbeloa, this performance was not a huge surprise.

In recent weeks, the coach has described Valverde as Real Madrid’s spiritual example, even comparing him to former player Juan Gomez – Juanito – who places the player at the Bernabéu on the club’s highest altar.

During his 10 years at Real Madrid, Valverde made nearly 300 appearances and won 11 major trophies, including two Champions League victories.

He grew up in Montevideo, Uruguay, in the La Union neighborhood.

His father worked as a security guard at a casino. His mother cleaned houses and sometimes sold clothes to help support the family. Money was tight. His first football boots were used, and his toes were repaired so they would last longer.

One of his young coaches nicknamed him “Pajarito” (little bird) because as a child he seemed to jump the ball all over the place.

His father, Julio, didn’t like the analogy very much. He preferred to think of his child as a stronger being, and with that in mind, he shaped his mindset.

“He taught me that fighting is in the blood,” Valverde said. “Even today he pushes me. He tells me to shoot more, to keep improving.”