Valverde admits poor form after Real Madrid derby defeat

Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has held his hands up for his underwhelming display in Sunday’s derby defeat to Atletico Madrid, admitting he “hasn’t been so good” this season.

The Uruguayan, one of the captains in Xabi Alonso’s side, struggled to make an impact in midfield and was at fault late on when a misplaced pass helped Atletico launch the attack that led to Antoine Griezmann’s goal in stoppage time.

“I haven’t been so good”

“I’m aware of how I’m playing. A footballer can tell when he’s having a bad game,” Valverde told reporters ahead of Madrid’s Champions League clash with Kairat Almaty.

“It’s true that I had a very good Club World Cup, but at the start of this season, I haven’t been so good.

“As one of the captains, I’ll continue to stand up for myself, leading this group. I’ll stick my chest out and keep moving forward.”

Players hold talks after derby setback

Valverde revealed that players and staff held in-depth talks in the aftermath of the 5-2 defeat to Atletico, describing the mood as one of deep reflection.

“They were two very tough days. Since I’ve been at Madrid, we’ve rarely gotten together so much to talk,” he said.

“We talked a lot about our attitude on the pitch and what was at stake. We also had many conversations with the coach and staff.”

The defeat was Madrid’s first league defeat of the new season under Alonso.

Attitude “non-negotiable”

Alonso had criticised his team’s lack of competitive edge, and Valverde echoed those concerns, admitting the players lacked urgency against their city rivals.

“These are things that shouldn’t happen at Real Madrid,” he said. “In a derby, attitude is paramount.

“You can make mistakes in passing or defending, but attitude is non-negotiable. As one of the leaders, I’m saying we’re going to regroup.”