After Real Madrid advanced to the FIFA Club World Cup quarter-finals with a 1-0 win over Juventus, midfielder Fede Valverde spoke to the official FIFA website about the victory and his new role.
On winning Man of the Match in the round of 16
“I’m truly happy—happy for the whole team and my teammates. I dedicate this award to them. Even though the trophy might come home with me, it’s entirely their achievement. I couldn’t be more thrilled.”
“As always, we aim to go all the way. Wearing this crest means we have a responsibility to win every competition we enter. We must fight for every trophy; representing this club is an honor.”
On team dynamics and performance
“I feel great and really at home here. As a unit, we feel liberated. Mentally and physically, we’re more willing to regain possession higher up the pitch, which gives us more attacking opportunities and chances to score.”
On becoming captain and leadership
“I’m incredibly proud and happy to be captain. We must use Xabi Alonso’s achievements as both a player and now a coach to inspire us. We need to leverage everything the coaching staff provides, and I must continue to do my job quietly while setting an example for teammates. When you’re captain of this club, you have to conduct yourself differently.”
