Federico Valverde

Federico Valverde is arguably Uruguay's most important player and one of Real Madrid's most trusted midfielders under Carlo Ancelotti. Nicknamed 'Pajarito,' he combines extraordinary engine capacity with technical quality and a willingness to do defensive work that many attacking midfielders avoid. His long-range shooting has become a genuine weapon — his strike in the 2022 Copa del Rey final was definitive. At Real Madrid he has won multiple Champions Leagues and La Liga titles. For Uruguay, he is the heartbeat of the midfield, capable of playing box-to-box or in a more advanced role depending on the team's needs.