Federico Valverde will take over the No. 8 shirt from Toni Kroos at Real Madrid next season.
The Uruguayan midfielder confirmed the news after Kroos announced his retirement from professional football.
## What happened?
Federico Valverde spoke candidly about taking over the mantle of the No. 8 jersey in a recent interaction with The Residency.
He expressed his surprise and gratitude, stating “I still can’t believe everything that’s happened”.
The player also shared his experience of the day Kroos gave him the responsibility, calling it “a memory forever in my heart”.
## Why it matters for Federico Valverde
Valverde will not be a like-for-like replacement for Toni Kroos, but he is expected to play a more crucial role in central midfield.
He stressed his deeper impact on the team’s build-up play and why he prioritises passes over shots now.
“I think I had another role this last time, and if I see a closer possibility than me to shoot the goal from afar, I always bet on the team”, he said.
## What comes next?
Federico Valverde will focus on the upcoming Copa America, where he will likely play a key role for Uruguay.
He also confirmed that he will soon dye his hair white, “after the Copa America”.
The Real Madrid star has been preparing for the tournament, which will be his first major competition since taking over the No. 8 shirt.
And with his new role comes new responsibilities, which Valverde is eager to take on.
But for now, he is focused on the Copa America and helping Uruguay secure the coveted tournament for the first time since 2011.
So the stage is set for Federico Valverde to make his mark on the international stage.
He has already made a significant impact at Real Madrid, and his new role will only add to his responsibilities.
The Uruguayan midfielder is ready for the challenge, and his fans will be eagerly watching his progress.