Federico Valverde signed his contract extension with Real Madrid on Thursday, after Vinicius Jr, Rodrygo, and Eduardo Camavinga.
The Uruguayan star signed a contract extension with Los Blancos until 2029, pledging his long-term career to the club.
Valverde spoke to the club media following the formalities and announcement of his new contract, giving an in-depth interview regarding his career and time at Real Madrid.
He started by expressing his delight at the new contract and the simple thrill of playing for the Merengues.
“It brings me great joy to return to this very special place and share such a significant renewal with my family.” I’m in the world’s greatest club. “I’m very proud of myself.”
“Real Madrid has provided me with everything. The maturity and ideals associated with being a good person, a good player, growing up, and setting a good example for youngsters. “It gives me great joy to be able to represent this shield,” he continued.
Staying on the subject of Real Madrid, the Uruguayan emphasized how difficult it was to refuse Real Madrid and how the renewal offer itself was unique.
“Rejecting Real Madrid is impossible.” It’s the most lovely thing in the world. Let the president inform you that you have the option to renew your membership in this club, and you don’t hesitate.”
Valverde has already won nine championships with the first team in his career. In response of his silverware achievements, he said,
“All Madrid players are hungry for titles, and we can’t survive unless we win.” Everything revolves on winning. When I do it, I am the happiest guy on the planet, and when I don’t, I feel as if I am losing a lot of things. I won’t belong in Madrid until I get it.”
One of the benefits of being a Real Madrid player is the chance to play in one of Spain’s most famous stadiums, the Santiago Bernabeu.
“It’s the most beautiful thing in the world.” There is nothing more lovely. Going out and feeling the pressure that you have to win and that you are playing for Real Madrid. The stadium “has the most beautiful adrenaline in the world,” the midfielder stated.
Valverde also specifically thanked Florentino Perez for believing in him through thick and thin and for always keeping the players on their toes to avoid complacency.
“He has always been there for us and has provided the values that a Madrid player is expected to provide.” It has also increased the pressure on us to keep winning. He will be remembered fondly and with appreciation by the Valverde family.”
When questioned about some of his favorite moments from his time in Madrid, Valverde said,
“When we won the Champions League and got to Cibeles.” It makes you glad to see so many people wearing white t-shirts in a metropolis. It altered my life in this club after experiencing it.”
“I realized over the years how lovely it is to share the dressing room in Valdebebas and at the Bernabéu.” Nothing is more amazing than experiencing these moments,” he continued.
Los Blancos have built a reputation for themselves as the comeback champions in recent years due to their never-say-die mentality even in the darkest of times.
“90 minutes at the Bernabéu are very long in Madrid.” The supporters and players always fight till the finish; we never give up and give our best in every ball. “There will always be an opportunity to win the match until the referee blows the final whistle,” Valverde remarked of the team’s mental toughness.
He then went into detail about the dynamics in the Real Madrid locker room and how the veterans and kids coexisted with mutual respect.
“We have a good mix of veteran and young players.” There is always good competition, which helps the squad improve. The key thing is that we all go to the same side and seek the same goal: to acquire championships so that we can all enjoy them.”
When asked about his development as a football player, Valverde said that the years had simply made him more hungry for trophies. Nonetheless, he conceded that he had evolved as a player on the field.
“I haven’t changed my desire to keep winning and winning titles.” Obviously, I’ve grown as a player and learnt a lot by competing for a role and serving as a substitute.”
“I have learned from my colleagues, and I have reaped the greatest possible benefit from living such significant moments.” Kroos, Modri, and Casemiro have all taught me a lot. That has helped me,” he adds.
As the interview neared its conclusion, the midfielder was asked about his ability to play in numerous positions and which one he preferred.
“I can best demonstrate my abilities when I play in my natural position, on the right or in the middle.” But I am available to the squad for anything they need, and if a player is absent, I will attempt to assist from wherever I can. Give my everything on the field, and outside, try to convey enthusiasm and encouragement.”
Finally, Valverde talked movingly about his parents and their pleasure in his accomplishment at Real Madrid.
“It’s fantastic news for them. They are constantly there, and I will always be grateful to them for all of life’s values and norms. I’ve watched people battle day and night for many hours just so I could eat or have a pair of football shoes.”