If anyone had predicted at the start of the season that Fede Valverde would face a situation like this, the only explanation would be that they came from the future. A leader on and off the pitch—captain with or without the armband—the Uruguayan midfielder has been a cornerstone since joining Real Madrid in 2018 under Julen Lopetegui.

Now, however, Valverde finds himself at the center of an unusual and surprising episode. His recent substitution against Kairat Almaty has raised eyebrows, not for the decision itself, but for the context surrounding it. Days earlier, the 26-year-old had stated bluntly: “I was not born to play at right back.” The comment came at a delicate moment, with Xabi Alonso missing both Dani Carvajal and Trent Alexander-Arnold in that position. While Valverde also clarified that he is always willing to help the team, the remark left its mark.

What followed in Almaty added fuel to the fire. Television broadcasts didn’t show it, but a video from journalist Iván Martín (OKDiario) circulated widely, revealing odd behavior from the midfielder. Unlike his usual soldier-like discipline, Valverde stood apart from the group. He was a substitute—Xabi later insisted the decision was taken before the press conference—but he was nowhere to be seen in the substitutes’ circle.

Rumors swirled that he stayed in the locker room, but in reality, he was on the bench, only coming out last and noticeably separated from the squad. During warm-ups in the second half, Valverde walked with his hands behind his back, observing teammates instead of fully joining the exercises. He eventually sat down, knowing he wouldn’t play, a posture that drew attention and sparked debate. Even Jude Bellingham approached him briefly, seemingly to lift his spirits.

After the match, Fran García gave some insight in the mixed zone: "Knowing Fede, I’m sure it bothers him. He always wants to be there for the team. We can always count on him. If I go into battle with him, I know he’ll give everything."

The incident has surprised many at the club. Valverde has always been the embodiment of commitment and discipline, yet this episode has left a sense of tension—something rare for one of Real Madrid’s most reliable figures.

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