Fiorentina have completed the signing of Victor Valdepeñas from Real Madrid, the club confirmed on July 14, 2026. The move aligns with new manager Fabio Grosso’s tactical vision for the team, prioritizing a specific profile on the left flank. While both Matteo Ruggeri of Atletico Madrid and Oso of Sevilla were considered, Grosso and the Fiorentina hierarchy ultimately favoured Valdepeñas’ skillset.
According to analysis from Sofascore, a key factor in the decision was Valdepeñas’ contrasting style to the other two targets. While Oso averages 4.33 crosses per game and Ruggeri 3.06, Valdepeñas attempts just 0.71. This isn’t viewed as a deficiency, but rather a strength, as Grosso intends to build a team based around possession and intricate passing, with the full-backs playing a crucial role in build-up play.
The acquisition of Valdepeñas is also strategically balanced with the recent signing of Alex Jimenez from Bournemouth. Jimenez is an attacking full-back known for his forward runs and one-on-one ability, potentially even featuring in attacking positions. To complement Jimenez’s offensive output on the right, Grosso sought a more defensively-minded and balanced presence on the left, a role Valdepeñas is expected to fulfill.
Valdepeñas’ background as a centre-back before transitioning to full-back is also seen as a significant asset. Grosso previously employed a similar player, Sebastian Walukiewicz at Sassuolo, utilising his ability to move into central positions and form a back three in possession. Valdepeñas is described as offering the same defensive solidity as Walukiewicz, but with greater mobility, speed, and technical ability. Sofascore data further supports this, showing Valdepeñas averaging 9.03 ball recoveries per game, significantly higher than Ruggeri (3.47) and Oso (2.67), as well as 1.52 interceptions per game compared to Ruggeri’s 1.19 and Oso’s 0.50. The club believes they have secured a tactically astute player who will provide balance and intelligence to the left side of their defense.
