Real Madrid: Grading the midfielders from the 2020-2021 season

CM Fede Valverde

Fede Valverde would have scored one of the highest ratings this season had it not been for a couple of injuries and absences. Almost everyone on Real Madrid had to miss some time due to an injury or COVID-19, but Valverde was one of those young players whose momentum was seemingly stifled by an injury early in the season.

Because Valverde started the 2020-2021 LaLiga campaign hot, just as he ended his breakout 2019-2020 season for the Royal Whites. The Uruguayan has become a huge asset to the club, as he works tirelessly in defense to win the ball back and is a very underrated attacker. Valverde was scoring goals to start the season, giving Real a needed boost offensively. He would struggle to add to his tally, though, finishing the campaign with “just” three goals.

All the work Valverde did as a versatile player for Zinedine Zidane won’t be forgotten and only serve to boost his value heading into 2021-2022. The incoming Real Madrid manager will relish the opportunity to work with such a hard-working and dynamic athlete as Valverde, who, again, showed the requisite skill on the ball and even finishing to be something special in midfield.

Real Madrid are a better side when they can get Valverde on the pitch, and as we saw in the second leg at Anfield when he played right back through a painful injury, he is willing to do whatever it takes to win.

Rating: 7.0