Fede Valverde, the Uruguayan player for Real Madrid, shared his happiness after wearing the captain's armband for the first time in an official match with the Merengues during their 3-0 victory against Leganés, a game in which he scored the second goal from a free kick. 

"I am very happy to fulfill another dream with this club. Today my wife was here. I would have loved for my kids to be here, for my parents to be here, as they’ve always supported me throughout my career. They couldn’t come because they’re in Uruguay, far away. But I believe this is a dream we’ve achieved together as a family. I can only express my gratitude to them," he said in the mixed zone.

In this match, Valverde played as a right-back, a position he’s not accustomed to: "I really enjoyed playing in that position today. I’m available for whatever the coach needs, for whatever the team requires. I tried to watch a lot of videos and games of my teammates, like Lucas and Carvajal. Obviously, I’m nowhere near their level, but I always try to give my best in that position and help the team."

The Uruguayan knows he’ll have to play in that role again against Liverpool at Anfield in the Champions League, a position he’s taken on in the past: "The first time I had to play as a full-back, I was very nervous. It was one of the hardest matches of my life."

"It was my first time playing as a full-back, and it was against a very tough opponent like Mané. I think I did well, but obviously, it was easier without fans, without their crowd. That made it more manageable. This time, I think it’ll be tougher, more difficult, but we are very prepared to face them," he added.

The number eight believes the win in Butarque serves as a boost ahead of the trip to England: "We knew it was important to win today, especially after Barcelona’s draw. We know they’re the team ahead of us, and we need to close the gap as much as possible. It was also crucial to win because of the upcoming match at Anfield against Liverpool, which will be very challenging. It’s a great joy, especially for the tremendous effort from all my teammates."

"The most important thing was to win today so we can head into a very tough match highly motivated. We’ve already had tough games against them where we started off losing and ended up winning, and that’s what matters most. We need to replicate that same effort," he emphasized. 

Finally, Valverde reflected on his goal: "Once again, the coach is the one responsible for me being able to score. I’m grateful to him because he’s the one who gives me the confidence I sometimes lack to take the ball and attempt a free kick. I can only express my gratitude. I’m happy with the team’s effort and proud of everyone’s commitment."