Real Madrid manager Mou faces a tactical puzzle ahead of El Clásico as the club weighs whether to deploy Fede Valverde at right-back or push the Uruguay international into a more advanced role on the wing, MARCA reported.

Valverde Shines in Defences Against Sevilla and Roma

Fede Valverde delivered a solid performance at right-back during Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory over Sevilla, following strong minutes in the same position during a Champions League comeback against Roma. MARCA reported that the Uruguayan’s defensive stability makes him a viable alternative in a position where neither Trent nor Dumfries has locked down unanimous support from the coaching staff. While Dumfries is expected to feature on the right flank against RB Leipzig, the tactical debate centers on where Valverde will line up for Sunday’s clash against Barcelona at the Camp Nou.

Midfield Balance and Arda Güler’s Rise

The flexibility of Real Madrid’s lineup stems from form in the central areas. Arda Güler’s creative output in the double pivot provides the team with a reliable engine, operating alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni, who acts as a defensive shield for the Turkish midfielder. With Güler dictating play from deep, coaching decisions regarding Valverde depend less on defensive necessity in the centre and more on how high up the pitch the club wants the midfielder’s athleticism to impact the match.

Weighing a Advanced Role at the Camp Nou

Coaching staff are weighing whether Valverde should repeat his stint as a traditional right-back or push forward into a false right-winger role against the league leaders, potentially pairing with Dumfries on the flank. Using Endrick as a starter on the right wing appears unlikely against Barcelona, with the Brazilian forward currently viewed primarily as a second-half spark, much like his substitute appearance against Roma. Pushing Valverde into the attacking line would not be entirely new, as Carlo Ancelotti frequently deployed him in advanced wide roles to exploit his pace and long stride into open space.

“The important thing is to win, as the coach said,” Valverde told Radio MARCA after the Champions League victory in Rome. “If things go well, we have to push forward, and I am happy to continue getting minutes wherever it may be.”