Valverde has played 190 games, Real Madrid pushed to the limit

From Anfield to Vallecas, the warning is clear: Federico Valverde is being stretched to his limits. After his latest bout of muscle fatigue that led to a minor injury, Real Madrid are being forced to face the reality: they have relied on the Uruguayan for too long, too much.

190/200 matches, 95% rate: unbelievable competition intensity

Since August 10, 2022, Real Madrid have played 200 official matches. Valverde has appeared in 190 of them, a 95% rate – a figure rarely seen in modern top-flight football. In just over three seasons, he has shouldered a workload that many players would need four or five full seasons to achieve.

• 2022-23: 56/61 games (92%)
• 2023-24: 54/55 games (98%)
• Last season: 65/68 games (96%)
• Current: 15/16 matches (94%)

The numbers don’t lie. This is a competition density that pushes the body to its limits, even with a physical foundation considered to have “superpowers”.

Versatility becomes a burden: the right-back role is eroding

The source of the overload comes from Valverde’s own strengths: physical stamina and versatility. From Carlo Ancelotti to Xabi Alonso, he has often been the answer to every problem – a player who can fill a gap in any position, especially right-back.

This season, Valverde has played the most right-backs on the team, with 7 out of 16 games. Last season, he also played this role 14 times. In a position that requires constant movement and high intensity, having to rotate less makes the physical burden even greater.

Signs of increasing overcrowding and a turning point in Vallecas

In the last four seasons, Valverde has had five physical problems, all minor and only requiring a few days off. But the frequency is increasing: from a thigh bruise (2022-23), lower back pain, hamstring discomfort (2024-25), muscle overload in pre-season to the current injury.

There were times when he had to endure the pain and wear bandages to play in Champions League matches against Atletico or Arsenal. The injury at Vallecas was not a coincidence but the foretold outcome of a cycle of wear and tear.

Real Madrid's problem: protect key players without sacrificing stamina

Real Madrid are faced with a difficult choice: how to protect a valuable asset without weakening their competitiveness. Valverde's 10-day break and not being called up to the Uruguay team is a necessary breather to recharge his batteries.

But in the long term, without proper planning and rotation, minor injuries can build up and turn into serious problems. A player who has played 190/200 games over three seasons – with regular duties on the right wing – is showing signs that Real Madrid cannot ignore.

Tactical angle: roles and rhythms need to be adjusted

Valverde brings intensity, coverage and instant tactical solutions in both midfield and on the right flank. However, it is the intense tempo and constant movement required at right-back that is most corrosive. Reducing his reliance on ‘anytime, anywhere options’ and spreading his duties across the board is key to keeping him fit for decisive moments.