Real Madrid coach Ancelotti praises Valverde for assuming senior role, says Carlos Volcano

He elaborated, "Valverde is excelling at a top level. It's unclear if he's naturally reserved, but he's stepping up and taking on more responsibilities in the dressing room with each passing day."

"Losing players as important as Kroos, Nacho, and previously Benzema and Casemiro, is bound to have an impact on the atmosphere, but then others have really stepped up in this sense and Valverde is one of them. I don't know if he's been shy in the past but I don't see a timid player now, I see a vital player for us.

"He's improving every day and I'm delighted with him. Valverde has all the attributes required of a top-level central midfielder. He's smart tactically, has a fantastic engine. He's a wonderful player."