Carlo Ancelotti declares Real Madrid star ‘indispensable’ following error against Athletic Club

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti wasted no time voicing his unwavering support for Federico Valverde after the team’s recent clash with Athletic Club. Typically one of the most dependable players in Madrid’s lineup, Valverde found himself at the center of attention due to an uncharacteristic and costly error during the match.

Real Madrid resumed their La Liga campaign with a trip to San Mamés, facing Athletic Club in a challenging encounter. The game ended in a disappointing 2-1 defeat for Los Blancos. Although Jude Bellingham managed to pull one back with a late goal, it served only as a consolation as the final whistle blew.

The decisive moment came shortly after Madrid had equalized. Deep in his own half, Valverde made a risky decision to dribble out of a precarious situation. Known for his composure and tactical intelligence, the Uruguayan midfielder unexpectedly lost possession in a dangerous area. Athletic’s Gorka Guruzeta capitalized on the mistake, racing towards goal and finishing clinically past Thibaut Courtois to secure the victory.

After the match, Ancelotti faced questions from the media about Valverde’s mistake. The experienced coach, known for his player management skills, addressed the issue directly. He acknowledged that Valverde, like Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappé—who had also faced disappointment after missing a penalty for the second time in a week—was understandably disheartened. However, Ancelotti was quick to defend his midfielder, describing him as “untouchable” and reaffirming his immense value to the team.

The coach’s public support reflected his understanding of the pressures top-level players face and his determination to protect them from excessive criticism. By backing Valverde so firmly, Ancelotti reinforced the idea that mistakes are a natural part of the game, even for the best players. His comments emphasized resilience and trust, sending a clear message that the team is united and prepared to move forward together, with Valverde poised to bounce back stronger in the upcoming matches.