Real Madrid and Toni Kroos parted ways at the end of the last season, marking the end of a remarkably successful era together.

While filling the void left by the German is not expected to be easy for Real Madrid, they had long before laid the seeds of a successful midfield succession plan that is now poised to bear fruit.

Over the years, Real Madrid have developed several young midfielders, and the time is now ripe for this talented group to take up the mantle of responsibility.

Indeed, according to MARCA, coach Carlo Ancelotti views Federico Valverde as the torchbearer in Real Madrid's midfield next season.

The report argues that with Kroos's departure, Valverde, who has taken over the No. 8 shirt, is expected to become even more important, leading the team forward in this new era.

In fact, Valverde will be one of Los Blancos' four captains this season, alongside Dani Carvajal, Luka Modric, and Lucas Vazquez.

Aside from an upsurge in status, Valverde has also grown tremendously as a midfielder in recent times.

Last season, the Uruguyan's creativity was far more noticeable and his ability to cover large distances often unjustly overshadows his poise on the ball.

Valverde even stepped into the creative midfield role during Kroos's absences. He enjoys this position as it allows him to be more involved in the game and showcase his powerful carries from deep.

Last season, Valverde played 54 games for Real Madrid, missing only one league match when the La Liga title was already done and dusted.

His extensive playing time reflects Ancelotti's strong confidence in him, and his efforts have now cemented his status as a legitimate replacement for the legendary Toni Kroos.