According to Marca, Mourinho values Valverde's role in midfield more highly, emphasizing his excellent defensive display and the 1-0 goal against Real Sociedad.

Federico Valverde has been one of Real Madrid's standout performers at the start of the new season. Aurélien Tchouaméni's absence due to a muscle injury in the first two matches opened the door for Valverde to start, with José Mourinho preferring him in the central midfield position.

It now appears that Fede's time playing on the wing has ended. When Valverde first joined, he played in three positions on the right flank, including right winger and right-back. For Mourinho, Valverde is a central midfielder—the position where he believes the player can best help the team. In the match against Real Sociedad, he made a powerful run from deep in his own half before setting up Kylian Mbappé for the opening goal.

Additionally, Mourinho and his coaching staff highly value the Uruguayan player's running ability. For a team that almost always has four attacking players on the pitch and is still waiting for Jean Diomandé to establish himself, this quality is crucial for maintaining balance. Against Real Sociedad, Valverde made 3 defensive actions, 2 tackles, and 1 interception, winning 2 of 3 duels and not being dribbled past in 90 minutes. His pass accuracy reached an impressive 93%, completing 2 of 3 long passes. Beyond his assist to Mbappé, he also had 2 shots, one blocked by an opposing defender and one saved by Remiro.

Mourinho's new position for Valverde will be fixed in midfield unless the team has a specific need for him elsewhere. The coach believes there are good options on the right wing: Arda Güler, Diomandé, Brahim, and even Bernardo—players who can provide security, and according to Mourinho's view, Valverde playing in the central position offers the same benefit.

Tchouaméni's absence helped Fede earn a starting spot from the outset. The new season has also temporarily eased tensions between him and the French player that arose at the end of last season, when the dressing room atmosphere became strained due to poor results.

Currently, Fede holds the advantage in competition with the French midfielder. His performance, particularly in defense, has earned the coach's approval. Mourinho also praises his leadership, intensity, and physical qualities, as well as his important role in improving the team's overall energy.

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