Real Madrid midfielder Federico Valverde issued an emotional apology to fans following the team’s 3-2 Copa del Rey final loss to Barcelona on Saturday night. The defeat leaves Madrid facing the possibility of a trophy-less season after earlier exits from the Champions League and Spanish Super Cup.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the Uruguayan international expressed his disappointment: “It happened again. And it will surely happen many more times, because this is the road we’re building. It makes me sad, angry, powerless. I feel like I failed you.”
Valverde acknowledged the difficult season, saying: “It’s been a tough year physically and mentally. But I made myself one promise – to keep going until my legs give out. This club deserves nothing less.” The 26-year-old vowed the team would bounce back, writing: “We’ll return, we’ll continue fighting. I’ll keep giving everything for the respect Madrid deserves.”
The final saw Madrid show more fight than in their previous two Clásico defeats this season. After Pedri’s opener for Barcelona, Kylian Mbappé equalized with a stunning free-kick before Aurélien Tchouaméni headed Madrid ahead. Ferran Torres forced extra time with Barcelona’s second, before Jules Koundé’s long-range strike sealed the win for the Catalans.
The loss marks a disappointing campaign for Carlo Ancelotti’s side, who entered the season as defending Champions League and La Liga champions. With only league games remaining, Madrid now face the prospect of their first trophy-less season since 2019-20.
