A night to frame
There were nerves, of course. A new coach, two consecutive defeats in the League and the feeling that everything could get complicated against Manchester City. But football sometimes gives you answers where you least expect them.
And this time his name was Federico Valverde.
In 45 magical minutes, the Uruguayan scored an anthology hat trick that not only gave Madrid a key advantage (3-0), but, above all, injected a massive dose of confidence at a crucial moment.
“Incredible, one always dreams of nights like this,” Valverde confessed to Movistar after the game. “I thank my colleagues, who give me the necessary confidence.”
The first was pure aim after a counter. The second, a precise left foot after a great run. The third… well, the third was pure art: control of Brahim’s lob and an unstoppable volley. The Bernabéu chanted his name at half-time.
The silent motor that now makes noise
While Mbappé scores goals and Bellingham monopolizes the headlines, Valverde has been the fundamental piece in the shadows. The player that Arbeloa has been able to place anywhere on the field with the absolute guarantee of delivery and performance.
Its reliability is priceless in a season full of changes. And now, in addition, he has added a goal. His six goals this season have all come since January, assuming responsibility in the absence of other stars.
“It doesn’t matter where you put him. He is the Juanito of the 21st century,” said an excited Arbeloa. “Valverde is everything a current Madrid player should be.”
The comparison with Juanito, symbol of Madrid’s claw and heart, says it all. It was not just a tactical victory. It was a declaration of intent and a huge relief for a bench that needed air.
Valverde did not only alleviate the anguish. He transformed it into an illusion.
