Learn all about Hirving Lozano: his career from Pachuca to Europe, statistics, titles, curiosities and the legacy of “Chucky” in world football.
ALL ABOUT THE FOOTBALLER FEDERICO VALVERDE
Federico Valverde, also known as "The Hawk," is one of the most complete and promising midfielders in football today. His talent, dedication, and versatility have made him a key player for both Real Madrid and the Uruguayan national team. In this article, we take you on a comprehensive journey: from his beginnings in Uruguay to his most outstanding achievements in Europe. We also review key statistics, little-known facts, and his impact on and off the pitch.
The beginning of a promising career
Federico Valverde was born on July 22, 1998, in Montevideo, Uruguay. From a young age, he showed an overwhelming passion for football, something that did not go unnoticed by his family. He joined the Club Atlético Peñarol academy when he was just 10 years old, after demonstrating a natural talent for the ball. At Peñarol, he quickly rose through the youth ranks, being considered an elite prospect for Uruguayan football.
First achievements in Uruguay
At 17, he made his debut in the First Division with Peñarol, one of the most historic clubs in Uruguay. His technical skill, recovery ability and game vision earned him the attention of several European clubs. The big opportunity soon arrived: Real Madrid became interested in him, and in 2016 he signed a contract to join their reserve team, Real Madrid Castilla.
Professional debut at Peñarol in 2015.
Champion of the 2015-16 Uruguayan Clausura Tournament.
Signed by Real Madrid at just 18 years old.
Prominent member of the Uruguayan U-20 team.
His time at Peñarol was brief but key: it cemented his competitive character and his profile as an all-rounder, something that would be vital for his growth in Europe.
From Castile to Stardom in Madrid
After arriving at Real Madrid Castilla, Valverde adapted to the European style of play, showing great maturity. He played a season in Segunda B with the reserve team before being loaned to Deportivo La Coruña in 2017-18, where he gained experience in LaLiga. Although the Galician team was relegated, Valverde left a good impression with his physical presence and defensive commitment.
Consolidation at Real Madrid
In the 2018-19 season, he returned to Real Madrid and earned the trust of coaches such as Julen Lopetegui, Santiago Solari, and especially Zinedine Zidane. Since then, he has been a key player in Real Madrid's midfield, standing out for his versatility: he can play as an attacking midfielder, holding midfielder, right winger, or even right-back if the team needs him.
More than 200 official matches with Real Madrid.
Winner of 2 La Liga titles, 2 Champions League titles, and multiple Spanish Super Cups.
Key goal in the 2023 Copa del Rey final.
Recognized for his physical presence and tactical precision.
He has also been an undisputed starter for the Uruguayan national team, contributing in both the World Cup Qualifiers and the Copa América. He is considered the heir to the fighting spirit of players like Diego Pérez and Egidio Arévalo Ríos, but with greater technical skill and attacking vision.
Beyond Midfield
Valverde stands out not only for his football skills, but also for his character and professionalism. Off the pitch, he leads a quiet life with his wife Mina Bonino and their son Benicio. He is known for his humility, sense of humor, and commitment to his Uruguayan roots.
Interesting facts you may not know
His nickname is "The Falcon" because of his ability to "fly" on the pitch.
He is a video game fanatic and often plays FIFA in his free time.
He has a tattoo that says "Fight for your dreams."
In 2020, he prevented a sure goal in the Super Cup with a tactical foul that earned him the MVP award.
He was included in the LaLiga Team of the Year several times. seasons.
Key statistics until 2025
As of October 2025, Valverde has played more than 250 games for Real Madrid, scoring more than 20 goals and assisting more than 30 times. With Uruguay, he has played over 55 matches and has been a starter in the last two Copa América tournaments and the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
Recorded top speed: 35.1 km/h.
Average pass completion rate: 89% per match.
Recoveries per game: 7.3.
Kilometers covered per match: over 11 km.
His development has been consistent and he is poised to become a legend for both Real Madrid and Uruguayan football. At just 27 years old, Valverde's best is yet to come.
YOU MAY ALSO BE INTERESTED