Ancelotti confirms new position for Valverde

Federico Valverde
Photo: Diego Souto/Getty Images

Carlo Ancelotti has confirmed that Federico Valverde will continue playing at right-back for Real Madrid until Lucas Vazquez returns to the position.

With Real Madrid experiencing injury crisis in defence, Valverde who’s normally a midfielder, has had to cover at right-back.

Speaking to the media, Ancelotti stated, “[Federico] Valverde will continue [at right-back] until Lucas [Vazquez] returns to this position.”

The Italian coach also expressed his satisfaction with Valverde’s performances, particularly his showing in the recent match against Manchester City. “I really liked his [Valverde’s] performance against [Manchester] City and he likes to play in that position,” Ancelotti added.

In addition to Valverde’s role at right-back, Ancelotti provided an update on Lucas Vazquez’s recovery, revealing that the Spanish full-back will be available for selection in Real Madrid’s Champions League knockout stage clash against Manchester City on Wednesday, February 19.

So far this season, Valverde has made five appearances at right-back, scoring one goal and providing one assist.