Federico Valverde was the star of the show during Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over RB Leipzig in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
It was a largely frustrating night for the defending champions as Leipzig produced a spirited display at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.
Valverde put Carlo Ancelotti’s side ahead in the 80th minute with an expertly controlled left footed shot into the back of the net, after some brilliant footwork by Vinicius Junior.
In the first minute of stoppage time, Marco Asensio made sure that all three points were Madrid's.
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24-year-old Valverde has enjoyed a more than decent start to the 22/23 season, and he was the stand out performer against Leipzig.
A compilation of his best bits from Wednesday night showed what a brilliant player he has become.
He showed great pressing ability in order to win the ball back for his team. On the ball, he had great composure to pick out the right pass for his teammates and he rounded off his stunning performance with a brilliantly taken goal.
Fans were quick to show their appreciation towards Valverde on social media.
One fan said: “His vision and long balls are so underrated.”
Another tweeted: “Generational talent. Another legend from Madrid.”
Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano also praised the midfielder, he said: “Man of the Match. Pure leadership, one of Ancelotti’s favourites.
“Never been discussed on the market last August despite PL clubs rumours - he’s simply untouchable. Fede Valverde, what a player… signed for €5m fee.”
After the match, Ancelotti joked that if he is unable to get Valverde to score at least 10 goals, he should retire.
The Madrid boss said: “What was strange last year was that he only scored one goal, in the Super Cup I think.
“If you can’t get a player like that to score at least 10 goals in a season then you should rip up your coaching badge and retire.”
Ancelotti added: “Because he has a rock of a foot. Tonight he took the shot with his left foot. I’ve never seen him shoot like that with his left, so it shows he’s confident in his abilities, and he has a lot of abilities.
“He’s more than just energy. But, to say he’s best in the world in his position, we might have to wait a little longer.”
In eight appearances so far this season, Valverde has managed to find the back of the net three times, whilst also providing two assists.
This could be the season that Valverde well and truly establishes himself as one of the best players in his position.
Topics: Champions League, RB Leipzig, Real Madrid, Federico Valverde
Marcus Chan