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getty'I'm truly sad' - Federico Valverde issues emotional statement addressing reports he refused to play after Real Madrid's Champions League clash with Kairat
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Protect 14 devices with the top ExpressVPN plan
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Those that sign up for ExpressVPN's top-tier Express Pro plan gain access to a high-speed VPN, which offers high-capacity 40Gbps servers in many high-demand locations, with VPN servers in 113 countries worldwide.
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Those that sign up for ExpressVPN's entry-level Basic plan gain access to a high-speed VPN, which offers high-capacity 40Gbps servers in many high-demand locations, with VPN servers in 113 countries worldwide.
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Additionally, ExpressVPN's Basic plan includes the ExpressMailGuard, which offers a 10MB/month private email relay plus 10 shared aliases.
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Over 28 monthsSave 80%
Advanced protection across 11 devices with high-speed VPN
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Those that sign up for ExpressVPN's most popular plan, the Advance plan, gain access to a high-speed VPN, which offers high-capacity 40Gbps servers in many high-demand locations, with VPN servers in 113 countries worldwide.
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Additionally, ExpressVPN's Advanced plan includes the ExpressMailGuard, which offers a 100MB/month private email relay plus 50 shared aliases and a custom domain, and ExpressKeys, which gives users a password management facility for an unlimited number of passwords plus a 2FA authenticator.
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Getty Images SportValverde denies refusing to play
Targeting directly to the rumours, Valverde insisted his reputation had been unfairly damaged. “I have read several articles damaging my reputation. I know I’ve had bad games, I’m aware of it. I’m not hiding, and I face the criticism head-on. I’m truly sad. People can say many things about me, but under no circumstances can they say that I refuse to play,” he wrote in a social media post.
AFPBehind the controversy
The tension emerged after Alonso reportedly considered using Valverde at right-back due to injuries. Hours before the game, Valverde had told the press that while he preferred midfield, he was ready to play anywhere. His subsequent bench role, solitary warm-ups, and distant body language led to speculation of a silent protest. Video clips of him skipping pre-match routines quickly went viral, sparking debate in Spain about his standing under Alonso.
Valverde’s statement may help cool the controversy, but questions remain about his role under Alonso and whether the episode hints at deeper issues within the squad. With two Champions League wins under their belt and returning to La Liga duty this weekend, Alonso must manage both results on the pitch and harmony off it, as this comes amid concerns regarding Vinicius Junior's place in the starting XI. For Valverde, the challenge will be to reaffirm his influence as Real Madrid’s vice-captain and one of their most dependable performers.
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