Marcelo Bielsa praised Valverde as a complete player.

Uruguay will travel to Hard Rock Stadium to face Saudi Arabia in their first Group H match of the 2026 World Cup. Head coach Marcelo Bielsa stated in an interview that Valverde is a complete player and is full of anticipation for the World Cup.

The 27-year-old Valverde plays for La Liga giants Real Madrid. In the 2025/26 La Liga season, Valverde contributed 5 goals and 7 assists for Real Madrid, while in the Champions League he scored 3 goals and provided 4 assists.

In addition, Valverde will also participate in the World Cup alongside Araujo, Bentancur, and Núñez.

Uruguay coach Marcelo Bielsa said, "Valverde has proven himself in three different positions. It is very important to have this type of player for a tournament like the World Cup, and our World Cup preparations have been very successful."

"My expectations for the World Cup have reached their peak. I often hear people say that they lack enthusiasm for the World Cup, both here and in Argentina. But I find it hard to believe that in a country like Uruguay, which loves its national team and football so much, there would be people who lack expectations, passion and excitement for the World Cup."

In addition, Marcelo Bielsa said, "I have these three feelings at the same time: anticipation, passion, and excitement. But at the same time, I am also deeply aware of the responsibility I bear, because we carry the hopes of the entire nation."

Image source: Internet