Federico Valverde, the talented star from Real Madrid, has recently revealed a fascinating story about his past that could have changed the course of Arsenal’s midfield history. Valverde, who has become a key player for Los Blancos, disclosed that he once went on trial with Arsenal during Arsene Wenger’s reign but ultimately didn’t sign with the club.
Valverde’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. At just 25 years old, he has already amassed an impressive collection of titles, including a Champions League trophy, two La Liga championships, two FIFA Club World Cups, a Spanish Cup, a UEFA Super Cup, and two Spanish Super Cups during his five years with Real Madrid. His versatility, being able to excel both on the wing and in central midfield, has made him an invaluable asset for the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid recognized Valverde’s potential and secured his services with a contract extension in 2021, which is set to run until 2027. However, Valverde’s journey could have taken a different turn had he chosen to sign with Arsenal during his trial with the club.
During his time on trial in North London, Valverde spent a week training under the guidance of Arsene Wenger. It’s a revelation that has rarely been discussed despite the success he has enjoyed since. When asked about this period, Valverde reminisced about his interactions with former Arsenal star Alexis Sanchez, who is now facing off against him in World Cup qualification matches.
Valverde expressed his gratitude to Sanchez, who extended a helping hand during his time at Arsenal. Despite being a relative unknown at the time, Sanchez treated him with respect and kindness. Valverde recalled, “Alexis was there when I went to train at Arsenal, and he was one of the few who came over to help me. He treated me well despite the fact that I was a complete nobody, and for that, I will always be grateful. When I was a child, he was there to assist me. He is an outstanding football player.”
This revelation leaves Arsenal fans wondering what might have been if Valverde had chosen to sign for the Gunners. His presence in Arsenal’s midfield could have had a significant impact, potentially altering the trajectory of players like Granit Xhaka and Kai Havertz, or anyone who took up the midfield role for the club during that era.
In the world of football, these “what if” scenarios often spark intrigue and debate among fans. Valverde’s story serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of sports careers and the pivotal decisions that can shape the destiny of both players and clubs. While Valverde didn’t become an Arsenal player, his journey from a trialist to a star at Real Madrid is a testament to his talent and determination in the world of football.
