The media noise surrounding the so-called “Valverde Case” seems to have come to an end. Xabi Alonso, coach of Real Madrid, wanted to shut down speculation suggesting that players such as Fede Valverde or Rodrygo Goes had refused to play in certain positions on the pitch. The coach was firm: “That has never happened. No player has ever told me he doesn’t want to play in a position.”

“The decision is always mine”

In the press conference ahead of the La Liga clash with Villarreal, Xabi Alonso stressed that he alone makes the decisions regarding each player’s role, always prioritizing what he believes is best for the team. “Everyone wants to be on the pitch, but in the end, I’m the one who decides. The attitude of everyone is positive, and I want to make that clear,” he said.

The coach was also asked about Valverde, who has often been used in unusual positions. According to Alonso, the Uruguayan is ready to play and remains an “important” piece of the system.

Alonso added a note about pre-match discipline: he has asked all substitutes to participate in rondos and warm-up drills on the pitch. This was seen as a subtle reference to Valverde’s attitude, as he did not take part in that preparation against Kairat Almaty. “It’s essential to be ready, because at any moment you might be needed,” he explained.

Unity in the Madrid dressing room

Beyond the controversy, the coach highlighted the close relationship he maintains with his squad. “We spend a lot of time together, preparing matches, celebrating victories, or suffering defeats. That unites us and builds mutual trust,” he said.

When asked about managing individual names, Xabi Alonso downplayed the issue: “The team is the most important thing. Everyone will have their moment, and we must normalize the fact that sometimes players expect to play and don’t. That’s part of life at a club of this level.”

The coach also remained calm in the face of media noise: “We shouldn’t get too high or too low. The more balanced we are, the better our performance will be.”

Madrid focused on La Liga

Real Madrid faces a key match against Villarreal, who sit third in the table just two points behind Los Blancos. For Alonso, the team needs to show both collective and individual strength to maintain their lead.

Meanwhile, the press also questioned him about Jude Bellingham’s absence from England’s latest call-up. The coach downplayed the situation: “It’s only a matter of time before he’s back. The important thing is that he’s recovering and improving every day.”

With this message, Xabi Alonso aimed to close the chapter on the “Valverde Case” and shift all focus back to the football, where Los Blancos remain fully engaged in the battle to stay atop La Liga.