LaLiga: Real Madrid’s new captain under Mourinho confirmed

Federico Valverde will be Real Madrid’s new captain as Jose Mourinho begins his second stint at the club.

But according to Marca, the armband will not automatically guarantee Valverde a place in Mourinho’s strongest starting XI.

It is understood there is a big selection problem in midfield, where Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni will compete for the same role.

Mourinho’s preferred setup is expected to include a double pivot.

Bernardo Silva’s arrival from Manchester City has given the Portuguese tactician a midfielder he believes can control the game.

That leaves three players competing for two positions. And if Bernardo is as central to Mourinho’s plans as expected, the real fight comes down to Valverde or Tchouameni.