Real Madrid will have an important role for Fede Valverde (and Lucas Vazquez) next season
It seems as if Real Madrid are poised to change their tactics for the 2022/2023 season in order to accommodate Kylian Mbappe in a goal-scoring position. For ages, Los Blancos have favored the 4-3-3, with the wingers asked to cut inside and provide goals in support of Karim Benzema, who has the unenviable task of being the team’s leading scorer and creator.
But next season, it seems Los Blancos will try out a 4-4-2, utilizing a duo of Mbappe and Benzema. That would enable Vinicius Jr. to remain on the left side, playing as a left midfielder. Mbappe, of course, would also benefit from playing up top instead of being shifted to the right, which is a position he does not favor.
Who starts on the right side of the midfield across from Vinicius Jr.? It seems as if Fede Valverde would be the most logical choice, as he is a right-sided midfielder who has even played as a progressing and pressing right winger at times.
Indeed, @LSR_RM tweets, as he has been saying for some time now, that Fede Valverde will have a key role as a right-sided midfielder in the 4-4-2. He will provide the defending and unselfish attacking outlet that the team require in order for Vini, Benzema, and, especially, Mbappe to focus on scoring goals.
Fede Valverde and Lucas Vazquez could be unsung heroes next season
Valverde won’t be the only player in this role, though he will be the most important player and starter. @LSR_RM adds that when Valverde needs rest or when he needs to move into the middle to help give another midfielder rest, backup right winger and right back Lucas Vazquez will be in this position.
And that makes sense as well. Vazquez is no right back, though that has been his main position these past two seasons in light of Dani Carvajal’s injuries and the lack of depth at the position. Though Vazquez has his defensive issues, he usually does a good job because of his work rate, dribbling, and ability to win the ball when it is on the ground.
Vazquez is an effort player who can help out in this role as a defensive presence and tireless progressor of the ball. He was recently extended, and it seems like Real Madrid will continue to find valuable ways for him to contribute. After all, he is a respected squad player.
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Of course, Valverde is the future star. He has changed quite a number of games for Real Madrid lately, including the recent Champions League win over PSG. And in this capacity, Valverde could become an even bigger part of the team and an even more respected midfielder globally.