Federico Valverde’s role has emerged as a key tactical consideration for Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho ahead of Sunday’s El Clasico against Barcelona, with the Uruguayan captain expected to feature on the right side of the team.

According to reports, Mourinho is weighing up whether to deploy Valverde as a right-back or push him further forward into a more attacking position for the high-profile encounter at Spotify Camp Nou.

Valverde’s recent displays have strengthened his case for a starting role in defence. He impressed in Real Madrid’s victory over Sevilla and delivered another strong performance at right-back during their Champions League comeback against AS Roma.

Questions surrounding Trent Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries have also increased the likelihood of Valverde being considered for the position. However, Real Madrid’s Champions League meeting with RB Leipzig on Wednesday could influence Mourinho’s final selection.

Dumfries is expected to feature against Leipzig, leaving the manager with further decisions to make before facing Barcelona, who currently lead the league standings.

Mourinho must also consider the balance of his midfield, where Arda Guler has developed an effective partnership with Aurelien Tchouameni in the double pivot. Their combination has provided Madrid with creativity and defensive stability, making it important to avoid disrupting that structure.

One option would be to retain Valverde at right-back, while another would involve moving him into a right-wing role ahead of Dumfries. The latter arrangement could offer Madrid greater attacking threat while maintaining defensive protection on that flank.

Endrick appears less likely to start on the right wing, with the Brazilian potentially being reserved for a substitute appearance despite his ability to influence matches from the bench.

Valverde’s experience in wider attacking positions makes him a natural candidate for the role. He regularly operated as a winger under former manager Carlo Ancelotti, demonstrating his adaptability across different tactical systems.

With Dumfries providing support behind him, Valverde could exploit spaces in Barcelona’s defence through his pace, strength and powerful forward runs.

Ultimately, Mourinho’s decision over Valverde’s positioning could prove crucial to Real Madrid’s approach in one of the season’s most significant fixtures.