Jose Mourinho has indicated his desire to retain Federico Valverde at Real Madrid, despite recent speculation surrounding the midfielder’s future following a disappointing 2025/26 season and a difficult World Cup campaign with Uruguay. Reports in Spanish media suggested Valverde was among those under scrutiny as the club considered a squad overhaul following two trophyless seasons, with his valuation reportedly dropping to €90 million from a previous €130 million.
Valverde’s form dipped significantly last season, culminating in a less than impressive showing at the 2026 World Cup where Uruguay were eliminated in the group stage. He was even substituted during a crucial defeat to Spain, a decision that reportedly followed questioning of manager Marcelo Bielsa’s tactics by several players, creating a ‘dressing-room crisis’ according to Marca. A training ground altercation with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni further fueled concerns.
However, according to Sport, Mourinho views Valverde as a vital component of his plans for the upcoming season. The Portuguese manager reportedly values the player’s physicality, aggression, and defensive capabilities, seeing him as a versatile player capable of adapting to multiple positions. Mourinho is keen to help Valverde rediscover the form that made him a key player in recent years.
While Mourinho is committed to keeping Valverde, the club are seemingly open to offers for Tchouameni. Sources have informed TransfersDaily that Madrid have informed Tchouameni that his first-team opportunities may be limited under Mourinho, particularly with the club actively pursuing a deal for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez. This has prompted interest from Manchester United, with former Red Devil Rio Ferdinand publicly urging Tchouameni to make a move to Old Trafford, believing he would be an ideal replacement for Casemiro. Ferdinand stated on his YouTube channel that United should prioritize signing Tchouameni if the opportunity arises.
Madrid’s willingness to allow Tchouameni to depart, coupled with Mourinho’s insistence on retaining Valverde, signals a clear shift in priorities as the club embarks on a new era under its new manager. This restructuring could potentially reshape the dynamic within the Real Madrid midfield.
