Valverde’s Leipzig performance leaves Mourinho with El Clasico selection puzzle

Fede Valverde has given Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho a fresh tactical decision to make before the meeting with Barcelona after producing an outstanding display at right-back against Leipzig.

The Uruguay international completed the full match with the captain’s armband and was influential at both ends of the pitch. His performance has renewed debate over whether he should start in the same position in El Clasico, despite Mourinho previously expressing reservations about using him there regularly.

According to Spanish newspaper AS, it was one of Valverde’s finest performances at right-back. The display came only a few days before the game against Barcelona and has strengthened calls for him to be given a more permanent role in the position.

Valverde created three chances against Leipzig, more than any other player, and made 26 appearances in the final third – also the highest figure in the match. He completed 81 passes, ranking second behind Dean Huijsen, who made 97.

He also led the game for successful tackles with four and had more touches than any other player, recording 116. Valverde was second for ball recoveries with five, second for crosses with two and fourth for shots with two.

His contribution was not limited to attacking. Defensively, he restricted Nusa to a single successful attempt to get past him during the 90 minutes. Valverde’s ability to move between the lines, support midfield and carry the ball into advanced areas added to his overall influence.

Mourinho praises Valverde

Mourinho praised the player after the Leipzig match, highlighting both his defensive authority and his contribution going forward.

“Valverde was defensively solid, then he moved forward very well,” said the Portuguese manager. “The team was very flexible in that area and very creative on that side.”

Those comments follow Mourinho’s earlier caution over deploying Valverde at right-back on a consistent basis. The manager had said Real Madrid had only one player with Valverde’s particular qualities and that using him in the position would be limited, while indicating that he preferred to benefit from his attacking strengths.

However, Valverde has since played at right-back against Villarreal, Roma, Sevilla and Leipzig. The run of performances has increased supporters’ belief that he can operate effectively in the role.

His latest display leaves Mourinho with several options for the Barcelona match. Selecting Valverde at right-back would affect the manager’s choices in the attacking positions, while using him in midfield or on the right wing would allow greater use of his creativity and ability to move towards goal.

AS reports that the most likely scenario remains Valverde starting on the right wing. Even so, his recent form at full-back has reopened the possibility of using him behind the winger against Barcelona.

Mourinho is unlikely to reveal his plans early, with Valverde’s position capable of changing the distribution of responsibilities in defence, midfield and the final third. The player is also now more accepting of playing at right-back, a role that had previously prompted debate, and his performances are strengthening the case for him to be used there more often.