Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde sounded the alarm, signaling a state of high alert within the club, following their convincing 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad in La Liga. Valverde's comments weren't merely a celebration of the three points; they served as a clear declaration that the long preseason was over and the team was now entering a crucial phase that allows no room for complacency.
In his strong post-match comments, Valverde indicated that the hard work throughout the season was aimed at reaching this moment. He said, “We have worked for a long time for these matches and for the remainder of the Champions League season. We have finished the long preseason and have truly entered the decisive phase.” He emphasized that the time has come for Real Madrid to demonstrate its true strength and fight with all its might on both the La Liga and Champions League fronts, the club’s two main objectives this season.
A crucial context in the battle for titles
These statements come at a crucial time. Domestically, this victory strengthens Real Madrid's lead in La Liga, widening the gap with their closest rivals and sending a decisive message to their competitors that the team will not relinquish the title easily. Continentally, the club is preparing for decisive matches in the knockout stages of the Champions League, a competition that is an integral part of Real Madrid's identity and history. The winning mentality and focus that Valverde spoke of are the fuel the team needs to face Europe's giants and secure their fifteenth title.
A complete performance and a message to competitors
The Uruguayan captain expressed his immense pride in the team's performance, praising the balance between defense and attack. He explained, "Thibaut Courtois was, as always, superb in protecting the goal, while we, as a team, successfully implemented our defensive plan and prevented the opponent from moving freely between the lines, which made the match seem perfect in every aspect." Regarding his stunning goal, Valverde revealed that it was the result of extra and intensive work with the coaching staff to refine his shooting skills, but he prioritized the team's success, saying, "The important thing is that the ball went in; that's secondary. The most important thing is winning, maintaining this momentum, and securing the three points.".
Valverde concluded by emphasizing that defensive discipline gave the team the advantage in launching effective attacks, considering collective commitment to be the main pillar on which the team will rely in the upcoming European matches, in a clear message that Real Madrid is physically and mentally ready to fight the upcoming football battles until the end of the season.
