The roar at the Santiago Bernabéu has followed one player more than anyone else in recent weeks, as performances continue to rise at just the right time. Federico Valverde is being hailed as the driving force behind Real Madrid this season, with club legend Toni Kroos praising his impact.

Valverde's form has reached another level during the current campaign. The Uruguayan midfielder has recorded eight goals and 12 assists in 42 appearances across all competitions.

He is becoming one of the most decisive players in the team. and his recent performances have been particularly eye-catching.

Valverde delivered a standout display in the UEFA Champions League Round of 16, scoring a hat-trick in the first leg against Manchester City.

He has also scored in three consecutive La Liga matches, underlining his consistency in domestic competition.

Speaking during an Icon League broadcast in Germany, Kroos did not hold back in his assessment of his former teammate.

"Valverde has carried the team on his back," Kroos declared. "I hope it lasts a long time, because I have a very good relationship with him and he's my friend."

The praise carries weight. Kroos and Valverde shared the pitch 187 times between 2017 and 2024, forming part of a midfield core that defined an era of success for Madrid.

Valverde can't stop scoring

Valverde has been pivotal to Real Madrid's run for league and Champions League success. And his rise comes at a crucial moment for Real Madrid.

With Kroos now retired, Luka Modric at AC Milan and the midfield entering a transitional phase, the team has needed a new leader to step forward. Valverde appears to be filling that role.

🚨🗣️ Toni Kroos: "Fede Valverde's match against Manchester City was no coincidence.

Fede is a player who not only has quality, but also MENTALITY. Since then, he's been flying on the pitch. It's incredible how he's playing right now.

He's CARRIED the team on his back. I hope… pic.twitter.com/6bNIhkMc59

— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) March 25, 2026

His versatility is also important, as he is capable of operating as a central midfielder, wide player, or even deeper in the buildup. This makes him indispensable for Alvaro Arbeloa, as did Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti.

More importantly, his ability to contribute both goals and assists adds a layer of unpredictability to Madrid's attack.

Kroos' comments highlight a broader shift: Valverde is no longer just a supporting piece, he is becoming the centerpiece.

Around Europe, Valverde's performances have drawn widespread attention. His combination of energy, technical quality, and end product has made him one of the most complete midfielders in the game right now.

Kroos' endorsement reflects not just friendship, but recognition from one of the most respected midfielders of his generation.

A leader Madrid can rely on

Within the squad, Valverde's leadership is also becoming more visible.

His recent scoring streak and Champions League heroics have positioned him as a player Madrid can rely on in decisive moments.

As the season enters its decisive phase, Valverde's role will only grow in importance. Real Madrid remain in contention across competitions, and maintaining this level of performance could define their campaign.

The challenge now is consistency. If Valverde continues at this pace, he won't just be carrying the team, he could be leading them to more silverware and Ballon d'Or contention.