Valverde: "We have to work together in defence and in attack to make it a great night"

Fede Valverde spoke to the media the day before the second leg of the Champions League last 16 qualifier, in which Real Madrid face Manchester City at the Santiago Bernabéu (Wednesday, 9:00pm CET): "It's a tie-defining game. We know how important it is to win tomorrow. We have to be focused and work hard. For me, it's a pleasure to continue being part of this team and to continue performing in games and reaching goals on a group and personal level. You always try to give your all individually but the important thing is the group.

We have to be strong and work together in both defence and attack so that it's a great night and we go through."

"For now I'm happy to be doing well in that position. We know I'm playing there because other teammates are injured, Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez. There are players missing and it's up to me to respond in that position. I think I've done well considering how long I've had to adjust. I try to do my bit by giving my all, working hard, trying to get forward and defend. I'm willing to help the team and the coach. If in the future I can't play in the middle I will play on the wing, I enjoy that position. I'm happy, I'm learning. I'm still in the starting eleven and for me, that's what's important.’

Wing-backs as role models
"I have players who for me are a great example: Carvajal and Lucas Vázquez. They are role models for this club, they have won everything here, they have made history and left their mark. They are Real Madrid legends and I admire them and try to learn from them as a player and as the captains they are. I try to gain as much knowledge from them as possible. I also try to give my all in whatever position I play in and that helps to open up my ideas and learn new things."

The role of the referees
"I always say that I'm not one to judge a referee. We're all human and we can make mistakes. They get a lot of criticism and when they do well they don't get praised. All I can do is make sure I'm available for the team. You have to understand that we have to think about ourselves, keep giving our all to win titles for this club, which is the most important thing. That is the best part and it's why we're here, to defend this badge and give our all on the pitch."

Player protests
"I would never tell a player not to protest. We're all on edge and we are all heated during the matches. Some experience it one way and others another. What I want is players who put their heart and soul into the game. I always want Bellingham to be like he was in the last game. He's a player who shows character, who always wants to win and fight and this time he got a red card. We're going to support and encourage him to always give his all. We have to stay united as a team."

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Chances of qualifying
"I'm happy with the match we played in the first leg. We have faith and we're raring to go, we're very motivated. I see how the team works, how motivated my teammates are, and how they train and that gives me great peace of mind. You know the team is going to be ready and focused. Everyone is willing to go the extra mile. The forwards are willing to defend and the defence is willing to do more than just defend. That's what gives me peace of mind and confidence that we'll go through."

Arda Güler's situation
"I think he's spectacular. He arrived recently and has a lot of experience at Real Madrid. It's a pleasure for us that he's taking up a place at Real Madrid. He has all the qualities to be an idol at this club and to leave his mark. As teammates, we support and help him. Many of the young players who have won at Real Madrid have had to go out on loan or be on the bench and that's not the best thing for a player. But that's what makes you mature so that tomorrow, when it's your turn to face matches with this club and with so much pressure, you'll be ready."

Is the feeling different in this tie?
"Yes, because we don't have to come back from behind, at least for now. The important thing is to start strong and focused. We have to try to make it a night to be remembered by all Real Madrid fans. Hopefully, it will be another game that brings us closer to the most beautiful title of all. We have to support each other, the players and the fans. I hope it's a night to remember."

Is this City team more dangerous or the dominant one?
"They're different teams, that's true. Years ago they had greater control of the game, but we changed our attitude. Real Madrid have changed their style of play and we played well in England. That allows us to be calmer. That is also due to the maturity of the eleven players we have worked with there and also those who came off the bench. We have to look at Manchester City's side, but also at our own. We can be proud of having improved in many aspects."

Feelings as captain
"I feel very honoured to wear the armband that so many legends of this club have worn. It's a nice pressure to be that image for many people. Also in this dressing room, there are many figures and stars. As a captain, you have a different image and that generates respect for the team. I try to keep learning from those who are also captains today, who are the ones who give me advice every day. That makes me grow on a daily basis."