Federico Valverde eager to learn from Jose Mourinho as Real Madrid captain begins new era

The Uruguay midfielder joined up with Mourinho's squad at Valdebebas on Wednesday after his country's early elimination from the 2026 World Cup, beginning preparations for a season in which he will take on greater responsibility at the club.

Valverde, who turned 28 on the day of his return, has been appointed Real Madrid's first captain following Dani Carvajal's departure and says he is ready to lead both on and off the pitch.

Speaking to Real Madrid TV, Valverde highlighted his excitement at working with Mourinho and his coaching staff.

"I'm eager to learn from Mourinho, to try and listen to every piece of advice he gives me, and to get the most out of every second, every minute of training I get to share with him and his coaching staff," he said.

"I'm going to try to learn and grow as a footballer and as a person. I think he's a special person from whom I can learn a lot, and I hope it's a great season."

Mourinho has overseen an intense start to pre-season at Valdebebas, with Real Madrid currently holding double training sessions as the Portuguese coach prepares his squad for the new campaign.

Valverde will be among the players looking to impress the new manager, but the midfielder's focus is also on adapting to his leadership duties after being handed the captaincy.

"It's incredibly emotional, a huge honour," Valverde said. "You think about everything you've been through, the good times, the bad, and then the moment came to be the first captain."

The midfielder credited former Real Madrid captains for helping shape his career, naming Carvajal, Sergio Ramos, Toni Kroos, Luka Modric and Lucas Vazquez among those who influenced him.

"I've learned so much from all the teammates who have been captains here. They've always given me incredible support," he said.

"I'll never tire of mentioning them. They're players who have helped me a lot to grow as a person, as a captain, as a player."

Valverde's return came after Uruguay were knocked out of the World Cup in the group stage following draws against Cape Verde and Saudi Arabia and a defeat to Spain. He completed medical tests before joining a training group that also included returning first-team players such as Arda Guler, Eduardo Camavinga, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Dean Huijsen.

The midfielder said his aim is to help create a positive environment within the squad while pushing for success under Mourinho.

"This will be my first year as captain, and I'm going to try to enjoy it to the fullest and give my absolute best, not only on the field but also off it, so that all my teammates feel comfortable," he said.

Looking ahead to the new season, Valverde made Real Madrid's ambitions clear.

"What we want most is to win titles this year and for the people of Madrid to be happy, to enjoy a year full of titles and to be proud of us."

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