Xabi Alonso Denies Claims Valverde Refused to Play, Responds to Player’s Statement

Xabi Alonso Denies Claims Valverde Refused to Play, Responds to Player’s Statement

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso has denied claims that Federico Valverde refused to play, responding to the midfielder’s “truly sad” statement.

Reports in Spain had suggested that the 27-year-old refused to play a defensive role in Real Madrid’s 5-0 Champions League win over Kairat Almaty.

Valverde even issued an emotional statement in response to the reports that questioned his commitment to the Spanish giants.

Speaking ahead of their La Liga clash with Villareal on Saturday (October 4) Alonso rejected claims that there had been any kind of falling out between the two.

Alonso said: "He's ready for tomorrow, like everyone else. We know how important he is, and we want to close this block with a win."

He added: "No player has told me they don't want to play in a certain position. They're all very willing, and then it's up to me to decide.0

“I want to make that clear. I've always noticed the trust and closeness with the players, always from my position."