Xabi Alonso denies Valverde and Rodrygo refused positions, reinforces authority at Real Madrid after controversy

Real Madrid coach Xabi Alonso denied on Friday, October 3, 2025, in Madrid, that players like Federico Valverde and Rodrygo refused to play in specific positions. The statement came during a press conference before the Villarreal match in the eighth round of La Liga, prompted by Spanish media rumors about internal discontent. Alonso emphasized that lineup decisions are his alone, aiming for the team’s best performance.

The controversy escalated after a 5-0 win over Kairat Almaty in the Champions League on September 30, when Valverde stayed on the bench. The Uruguayan had previously said he does not see himself as a right-back, a role improvised due to injuries to Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dani Carvajal. Rodrygo, meanwhile, expressed a preference for the left wing but came off the bench against Kairat and contributed to two goals.

Real Madrid seeks recovery in La Liga after a 5-2 loss to Atlético de Madrid on September 27, which cost them the lead to Barcelona. The Villarreal clash at Santiago Bernabéu is a chance for Alonso to stabilize the environment.

• Alonso stressed the importance of the team over individual preferences.
• Valverde issued a social media statement denying refusal to play.
• Rodrygo, as a substitute, showed versatility on the field.

🎙️ @XabiAlonso 🎙️
📺 Rueda de prensa ➡️ RM Play

— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadrid) October 3, 2025

Alonso’s statements on the squad

Xabi Alonso reinforced confidence in the group during the press conference. He noted that time spent with players allows quick resolution of any issues. The coach mentioned such situations are common in top teams and the focus remains on game preparation.

No signs of disharmony were reported internally. Alonso praised the commitment of all, including Vinícius Júnior, who also faced questions about playing time. Daily interactions at the Valdebebas training center foster this balance.

The coach avoided dwelling on rumors, prioritizing the upcoming match. He indicated Valverde is fit to play against Villarreal, as is the rest of the squad.

Valverde’s right-back rumors

Federico Valverde, Real Madrid’s vice-captain, sparked debate by stating he was not born to play right-back. The comment came amid defensive shortages, forcing improvisations. Alonso opted for Asensio in that role against Kairat, leaving the Uruguayan as a substitute.

Valverde publicly addressed the speculation. In a statement, he denied any refusal and reaffirmed full commitment to the club, even playing through injuries previously. The episode followed the Madrid derby loss.

Spanish media highlighted Valverde’s actions during the Kairat warm-up. He sat on the bench while other substitutes prepared, fueling perceptions of dissatisfaction. Alonso, however, downplayed the incident.

At 27, Valverde is a key midfielder. His versatility has been tested under the new management, but recent performances dipped compared to Carlo Ancelotti’s era.

Rodrygo’s preferences in attack

Rodrygo Goes, the 24-year-old Brazilian forward, requested to play on the left wing internally. The preference leverages his speed and finishing, where he excels. Against Kairat, he started on the bench but replaced Vinícius Júnior and impacted two goals.

Alonso’s rotation manages fatigue in a packed schedule. Rodrygo has alternated wings, logging minutes in La Liga and Champions League. His adaptability is viewed positively by the coaching staff.

The Brazilian has three goals this season. The position discussion did not lead to public conflict, unlike Valverde’s case. Alonso praised Rodrygo’s discretion in private talks.

Preparation for Villarreal in La Liga

Real Madrid is training intensely for Villarreal on Saturday, October 4. The opponent has 16 points in seven rounds, with five wins, one draw, and one loss. Real, with 18 points, needs a win to pressure leaders Barcelona, who have 19.

Alonso plans lineup rotations. Injuries to Alexander-Arnold and Carvajal limit defensive options, but returns like Jude Bellingham bolster the midfield. The coach prioritizes balance between attack and defensive solidity.

Villarreal, coached by Marcelino García Toral, relies on fast counterattacks. Players like Álex Baena and Gerard Moreno pose threats. Recent history favors Real, with wins in direct clashes.

Valverde is expected to return to the starting lineup. His midfield presence is vital for quick ball transitions. Rodrygo competes for a spot in attack alongside Mbappé and Vinícius.

Tactical changes under Alonso

Since Xabi Alonso’s arrival in the European summer, Real Madrid adopted a more fluid system. The former club player applies his Bayer Leverkusen approach, emphasizing possession and high pressing. This shifted minutes for stars like Vinícius, Rodrygo, and Valverde.

The transition from Carlo Ancelotti’s relaxed style required adjustments. Alonso manages egos in a star-studded locker room, prioritizing the collective. The Kairat win eased tensions post-derby.

Criticism arose over delayed substitutions in the derby. Alonso acknowledged lessons learned but defended tactical choices. The squad responds with intense training, focusing on cohesion.

The impact shows in stats: the team averages 2.8 goals per game in La Liga but has conceded more defensively lately. Alonso aims for stability in the upcoming fixtures.

Club’s stance on rumors

Real Madrid remains officially silent on the controversies. Internally, there is support for Alonso’s conflict management. The club values transparency in press conferences but avoids fueling them.

Valverde and Rodrygo attended recent video analysis sessions. The integration aligns expectations with the tactical setup. No transfer requests have been reported.

The board monitors the environment. With a focus on titles, the group prioritizes results. The Villarreal game will serve as an early gauge.

Midfield outlook

Arda Güler emerged as a creative reference in midfield. His rise pressures Bellingham for a fixed spot. Valverde, despite fewer minutes, delivers key assists.

Alonso tests three-midfielder setups. Camavinga and Tchouaméni offer defensive options. Versatility is a weapon for a 50-game schedule.

Rodrygo benefits from rotation in attack. His left-wing preference aligns with crossing tactics. The Brazilian trains extra finishing drills.

Villarreal will test the side defenses. Alonso is likely to avoid improvisations, keeping Valverde central.