Real Madrid's New Captain: I Can't Wait to Learn from Mourinho

Midfielder Federico Valverde rejoined Real Madrid today after his World Cup duties, kicking off his preparations for the 2026/27 season. The team's new captain, who underwent medical examinations at the club's facilities this morning, greeted head coach José Mourinho and completed his first pre-season training session.

After the session, Valverde, who turned 28 today, spoke to the club's television channel: “I'm incredibly happy to be here for another year, at the best club in the world, which I've always dreamed of since I was a child. To be able to celebrate my birthday here with my teammates and the entire staff is truly very exciting.”

Meeting Mourinho

“I can't wait to learn from him, to listen to every piece of advice he gives me, and to make the most of every second or minute of every training session I share with him and his coaching staff. I will try to learn, to grow as a person and as a footballer. He is a special person from whom I can learn many things. Hopefully, it will be a good season.”

First Season as First Captain

“I feel immense emotion and great honor. Whenever someone on the street or in my circle mentions it, it fills me with pride and excitement. You reflect on everything you've experienced: good things, bad things... And the moment has come to be first captain. I've learned a lot from all the teammates who have been captains here. They have always given me incredible support, and I will also use all of that to grow alongside the coaching staff.”

Role Models

“I grew a lot with players with whom I shared the locker room for many years, such as Dani Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Toni Kroos, Luka Modrić, and Lucas Vázquez... I won't tire of listing them. These are footballers who helped me immensely to grow as a person, as a captain, and as a player. This is my first year as captain, and I will try to enjoy it and give my all. Not only on the field but also off it, to make all my teammates feel comfortable.”

Enthusiasm for the New Season

“Not just me, but the entire team is enthusiastic. What we want most is to lift trophies this year, for the Madridistas to be happy, to enjoy a year full of accolades, and to be proud of us.”