How Real Madrid have changed with Valverde at right-back

Federico Valverde has become one of the key change-makers at Real Madrid recently, having proven his ability to provide a significant contribution to the team from the right-back position. This tactical shift has given coach José Mourinho numerous solutions and has rearranged the roles within the royal lineup.

Federico Valverde's recent brilliance has underscored his immense value, as he scored the winning goal for Real Madrid against AEK Athens in Greece, despite coming on as a substitute in the central midfield position. He then returned to the starting lineup against Valencia, playing as a right-back and scoring the opening goal of the match.

Federico Valverde's impact at right-back extends beyond defense, as it influences various aspects of the team's performance. He provides Real Madrid with a player who possesses defensive strength and solidity, along with a significant ability to advance and support in attack, in addition to having the technical quality that helps the team build play and progress the ball from the back.

Federico Valverde's attributes provide the team with a unique blend of qualities typical of specialists in his position, like Trent Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries, while adding his ability to shoot from long distances. This was clearly evident this week, as his shots played a crucial role in the team's victory against AEK Athens and Valencia.

Federico Valverde's positional change has positively impacted the midfield, allowing more space for skillful players. This has helped Arda Güler to stand out against Valencia, as he scored one goal and assisted another. It has also given Bernardo Silva a greater opportunity to influence the build-up play and organize possession.

This adjustment has also highlighted Aurélien Tchouaméni's abilities more effectively, as his defensive role has become clearer, focusing on ball recovery and cutting off opponents' attacks, away from some tasks that do not align as well with the characteristics of the French midfielder.

On the attacking front, Federico Valverde's presence on the right side has provided greater balance to the team's movements, especially with the collaboration between him and Arda Güler. Meanwhile, Real Madrid has started to benefit more from the opposite flank, where Yan Diomande has been shining, thanks to his attacking contributions and defensive commitment, alongside the improvement in Marc Cucurella's attacking roles as some defensive burdens have been lifted from him.

Federico Valverde's new position has become one of the key tactical files within Real Madrid, as José Mourinho started the season treating him as a midfielder. However, recent matches have revealed a greater impact from the Uruguayan star when he occupies the right-back position, both in terms of collective performance and results, making him one of the most important elements that have changed the shape of the royal team under the Portuguese coach.