Real Madrid in awe of one of 'best on planet' Federico Valverde

"I think he's the most underrated footballer on the planet and has been for years. Even when I wasn't here, I admired his game so much. There's no flaw in it, there's nothing he can't do. The energy and what he brings to the team is absolutely immense. He never moans, he pushes himself to the limit, game in game out."

"It doesn't matter where you put [Valverde], for me he's the Juanito of the 21st century, a benchmark for Madridismo. He's everything a Madrid player should be. He deserved a night like this, for sure he won't ever forget it."

"We wanted Fede to be more aggressive, to attack City's backline. He made a huge effort, he helped Trent in defence, he scored three goals. It's a game to remember."

Federico Valverde delivered a dominant performance with a hat trick in just 22 minutes, leading Real Madrid to a 3-0 victory over Manchester City in their Champions League last-16 first leg. Valverde became the first midfielder to score a hat trick for Madrid in the Champions League, doubling his career tally in the competition. Teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold praised him as the most underrated footballer on the planet, highlighting his versatility, work ethic, and elite-level abilities. Coach Álvaro Arbeloa compared Valverde to Madrid icon Juanito, calling him a benchmark for the club's values. Pep Guardiola acknowledged Valverde as the match's deserved MVP.

Read at ESPN.com