“It’s Carlo’s fault” - Real Madrid star provides hilarious response when asked about his goals
Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde has attributed his knack for scoring goals to Carlo Ancelotti's support. He stated that the manager always encourages him and fills him with confidence.
Valverde had a memorable game against Leganes on Sunday, November 24. The Urugyuan got on the scoresheet on his first appearance as a Real Madrid captain. A lack of defensive options due to injuries saw Ancelloti deploy Valverde as a right-back and he was handed the captain's armband for the clash.
The 26-year-old doubled his side's advantage in the 66th minute off a freekick from over 20 yards out. Kylian Mbappe had put Los Blancos ahead in the first half (43'), while Jude Bellinghman wrapped up the victory with his second goal of the season in the 85th minute.
When questioned about his goals after the game, Valverde provided a hilarious response, saying (via Madrid Xtra on X):
"My goals? It's Carlo's fault because he always encourages me to score and fills me with confidence."
Valverde has been one of Carlo Ancelotti's most reliable players this season. He has started in all of the club's 17 games across competitions this season, contributing three goals and two assists.
He has also replicated his form on the international stage. The Real Madrid star recently scored a stoppage-time equalizer in Uruguay's 1-1 draw with Brazil in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers on November 20.
Despite playing in an off position, Federico had a productive game against Leganes.
Real Madrid close gap on rivals Barcelona
Real Madrid has closed the gap between them and rivals Barcelona to four points having played a game less. Los Blancos currently sit second in the league with 30 points from 13 matches. Barcelona, meanwhile, has 34 points from 13 matches.
Barcelona enjoyed a perfect start to the season. They won seven games in a row and 10 from 11 matches including a 4-0 El Clasico victory at the Santiago Bernabeu. However, the league leaders have failed to win their last two games, allowing Madrid to close the points gap.
Despite a defensive injury crisis, Carlo Ancelotti's side has managed to steady the ship since the disappointing El Clasico defeat. They have churned out convincing wins over Osasuna (4-0) and Leganes (3-0).
Real Madrid will next face Liverpool away in the Champions League on Wednesday, November 27, before facing Getafe at home in the league four days later (December 1).
