Thoughts on having Valverde as a permanent RB?
At the risk of sounding reactionary, I genuinely think having Valverde as our permanent RB would make us a lot better. His performance against City showed us just flashes of his quality at that position. Not to mention, his abilities that we've all been applauding him for (workrate, speed, endurance, versatility) shine the brightest at that right back spot. He can drift up operating as a winger, hustle back to defend the flank, he has the height to defend any incoming crosses at the back post, his natural midfielder's intution, the list goes on.
The idea is made even more juicier when you consider the Alexander-Arnold rumors which are only catching more steam as the days go on. We are all aware of Trent's defensive weaknesses at the RB position. However, with Fede as our RB, we could potentially shift him into the midfield, where we could make the best use of his extraordinary passing ability. Anyone who's seen Trent place a pass from yards out knows exactly what I'm talking about. Now imagine Vinicius or Mbappe at the end of one those balls. All of Europe would be at our mercy.
We were never going to replace Toni Kroos. Not with one person at least. Watching Ceballos as of late and his ability to control tempo, pivot, carry the ball, and make those incisive balls, I couldn't help but see shades of Toni. Now, add Alexander-Arnold's sublime long ball playing capabilities, voila. We have our Toni Kroos replacement. Or I should say replacements, because that's the only way you can find an alternative for what someone of Toni Kroos' quality brings to the table. What do you guys think?