Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde reserved special praise for two of the club’s biggest stars after the win away at Villarreal.
Valverde pointed to the off-the-ball commitment shown by Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Jr, highlighting how both attackers worked hard defensively whenever Madrid were forced to play without possession.
“I’d like to highlight the defensive work of Mbappé and Vini Jr,” Valverde said after the match.
The pair were also decisive in the attacking phase. Mbappé led the way with a brace, while Vinícius played an important role in Madrid’s breakthrough, stretching Villarreal’s defence and helping create the openings that changed the game.
Speaking post-match at La Cerámica, Valverde was asked about the performance of Álvaro Arbeloa’s side and used the moment to underline the team effort behind the result — not just the goals and highlights, but the discipline and intensity that helped Madrid control key moments in a tough away fixture.
With big games coming quickly, Valverde’s comments will be welcomed by Madrid fans, showing that the team’s forwards are buying into the work required across all phases — pressing, tracking back, and supporting the defensive structure when needed.
