Federico Valverde has already been creating a lot of waves in the Uruguay national team level after coming in with some impressive performances.
The 19-year-old was regarded as a top talent even when he was coming through the youth ranks at Penarol. This led to Real Madrid snapping up the youngster even as early as in July 2016. The youngster cost a reported € 5 million despite his age and he has been sent out on loan to Deportivo La Coruna in order to get first team action. So far, the teenager has been making a lot of good impressions after featuring in five appearances for Pepe Mel’s team.
Now, the youngster has received a lot of praise after playing a vital role in the 2-1 win over Paraguay in the World Cup 2018 qualifiers. He came in with a commanding display against Paraguay and this was also his first appearance for the national team. The youngster managed to score his debut. He had featured in 24 appearances for the under 17 team and 15 games for the under 20 team in previous years.
Yet, this match against Paraguay saw a new star rise from the ranks. Manager Oscar Tabarez and star striker Luis Suarez have been quick to praise the midfielder for his quality.
Valverde has signed a long-term contract with Real Madrid which does not expire until 2021. “Don’t come here and tell me that [Federico] Valverde has to be in the national team. It’s going to take him time. For a player to work his way into the national side, he has to perform and pick up a lot of experience,” said Oscar Tabarez about his performances earlier. “Valverde is a phenomenon. This is just another demonstration of the faith El Maestro has. He’s not scared to bring in players who are bang in form,” said Luis Suarez.