Ancelotti names player who hasn't returned to his best level yet - he was crucial before World Cup

In the latest presser, Carlo Ancelotti was asked to comment on Fede Valverde's recent below-par performances.

"He hasn't reached his best level yet [after returning from the World Cup]. He isn't contributing like he did in the first part of the season, which is quite normal," the Real Madrid coach said.

"We have to be patient. We're not asking him to score, but to contribute in defence and attack... He'll score when he returns at his best."

This term so far, Valverde has recorded 8 goals and 4 assists in 27 matches for Real Madrid. However, all of his goal contributions came before the World Cup.