Ex Premier League star claims that Federico Valverde is on his way to become the best after a solid season so far.
Former Chelsea, Liverpool, and West Ham United winger Joe Cole claimed Federico Valverde is on the verge of becoming the best midfielder in the world while speaking on BT Sport (h/t Daily Mail).
The 2022–23 season is off to a fantastic start, and Valverde has established himself as one of Carlo Ancelotti’s team’s most crucial players.
The 24-year-old has always brought vigor and tenacity to the field, but this year he added goals to his repertoire and has been an important player in the final third of the field.
On Wednesday, Real Madrid thrashed Celtic 5-1 in the UEFA Champions League, with Valverde scoring once more. The man of the match award was given to the Uruguayan international for his all-around performance on the evening.
Additionally, Joe Cole has compared Valverde to Real Madrid target Jude Bellingham and asserted that Valverde is undoubtedly on the rise after having time to study under players like Toni Kroos, Casemiro, and Luka Modric over the past few years.
He’s found it tough getting into Casemiro, Kroos, and Modric, they’ve been incredible. He’s had to wait, bide his time and learn from the greats, take a little bit from everyone’s game.”
Highlighting what Valverde brings to the table, Cole added: “He’s box-to-box, he scores goals, he’s a technician he was the unsung hero in the final, I thought he was outstanding against Liverpool.
“He drove that team forward, he’s a powerful boy, took his goal lovely, and he’s one that I earmarked about two years ago.”
The former Premier League and England star continued, “His stats this year are unbelievable, his goals, assists, goal involvements, incredible player and we talk a lot about Bellingham in this country, but this kid is every bit as good as Bellingham.”
Whether playing on the right wing or in central midfield, Valverde has been truly impressive this season. In 18 games across all competitions, the 24-year-old has already scored eight goals and assisted on four more, and more of the same can be anticipated from him.
