THe roars in Santiago Bernab, whose performances have continued to rise at the perfect time in recent weeks, is following one player more than anyone else. Federico Valverde has been hailed as Real Madrid’s driving force this season, with club legend Toni Kroos also praising his influence.
Valverde’s form has reached a new level this season. The Uruguayan midfielder has made 42 appearances in all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing 12 assists.
He is becoming one of the most decisive players on the team. His recent performances are particularly eye-catching.
Valverde was outstanding in the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League, scoring a hat-trick in the first leg against Manchester City.
Kylian Mbapp reacts in the stands after Federico Valverde scores a hat-trick against Manchester City
He has also scored goals in three consecutive La Liga games, proving his stability in domestic competitions.
During a live broadcast of the Icon League in Germany, Kroos freely expressed his opinion of his former teammate.
“Valverde has carried the team on his back,” declared Kroos. “I have a very good relationship with him and he’s my friend, so I hope this relationship lasts for a long time.”
Praise carries weight. Kroos and Valverde shared the pitch 187 times between 2017 and 2024, forming part of the midfield core that defined Madrid’s era of success.
Valverde can’t stop scoring.
Valverde has played a vital role in Real Madrid’s success in the league and the Champions League. And his rise comes at a crucial moment for Real Madrid.
With Kroos’ retirement and Luka Modric at AC Milan, the team was in need of a new leader, with the midfield entering a period of transition. Valverde appears to be playing that role.
His versatility is also important, allowing him to operate as a central midfielder, wide player or even deeper in the build-up. That makes him indispensable for Alvaro Arbeloa, just like Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti.
More importantly, his ability to contribute both with goals and assists adds unpredictability to Madrid’s attack.
Kroos’ comments highlight a wider shift, with Valverde no longer just a supporting character but becoming a central figure.
Across Europe, Valverde’s performance has attracted widespread attention. His combination of energy, technical quality and end product makes him one of the most complete midfielders in the game currently.
Kroos’ support reflects not only friendship but recognition from one of the most respected midfielders of his generation.
A leader Madrid can trust
Valverde’s leadership is becoming more evident within the team.
His recent scoring streak and Champions League heroics have established him as a player Madrid can rely on in crucial moments.
Valverde’s role will become increasingly important as the season reaches its decisive stages. Real Madrid have been in contention throughout the competition and maintaining this level of performance could define their campaign.
The challenge now is consistency. If Valverde continues at this pace, he will not only lead the team, but he will lead them to another silver medal and a fight for the Ballon d’Or.
