'He’s killing us’ – Fede Valverde speaks on brutal preseason work with fitness coach

Real Madrid midfielder Fede Valverde is one of the fittest players in the squad, but even he is struggling with the team's preseason routine.

The Uruguayan midfielder spoke to Diario AS about the intense training regime that is being put in place by fitness coach Antonio Pintus.

"He is killing us, but this is what gives you energy during the year," Valverde said. "It is going to give us that good feeling when the season is ending or in the middle, when other teams fall apart."

Pintus is famous for his demanding training methods, and his work has been credited with helping Real Madrid to peak at the right time in recent seasons.

Valverde is also facing increased competition for his place in the team this season, with the arrival of Jude Bellingham and Brahim Diaz.

However, the 23-year-old is confident that he can still play a key role for Los Blancos.

"It is a very important moment for me and I try to make the best of it," he said. "I always think about enjoying things when it comes to Real Madrid. I try to keep learning, maturing as a footballer and as a person."

Valverde is also aware of the need for Real Madrid to sign a striker this summer, but he is confident that the team has the quality to challenge for major trophies regardless.

"[We have] A great team, and if we all pull in the same direction, we are going to achieve great things," he said.