Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Alaves on Sunday, keeping pace with Barcelona in the La Liga title race. It was not a flawless performance, but given the absences and difficult circumstances, the three points were all that mattered for Los Blancos.
That sentiment was echoed by Fede Valverde, who spoke to the media after the match at Mendizorroza, as quoted by Diario AS.
Valverde on Real Madrid’s mentality
“Today it was very important to continue fighting for La Liga, with many casualties due to injuries and expulsions. But the team showed pride, that desire to fight until the end, and we took three very important points.
“We were very clear that we had to go out to win and fight for those key points. The team insisted and fought until the end. In the first half, before the 0-1 goal, we were playing very well, but then we dropped deeper defensively. It was difficult to play out from the back, but Rodrygo scored a great goal and that allowed us to win.”
Special praise for Victor Valdepenas
Valverde reserved special praise for Victor Valdepenas, who made his first-team debut at left-back for Real Madrid.
“I want to congratulate Valdepenas, who played a great game on his debut. We are very close to him, and hopefully more academy players get opportunities like this. It’s always special when young players make their debut, because it’s a dream for them. We will support him in everything he needs.”
The advice before kickoff
Valverde also revealed the simple but meaningful advice he gave to the young defender before the match.
“It’s simple, or at least it seems so, but he has to enjoy it. Playing for Real Madrid is something unique, something every young player in the world dreams of. Before the game, I told him to enjoy it and to value what it means to play for Real Madrid.
“He did it spectacularly. He valued it and defended the badge like never before. We are very happy for him.”
MadridistasZone view
Moments like this show why leadership matters. Valverde’s words reflect the values of Real Madrid, where experience guides youth and responsibility comes before individual praise.