José Mourinho has urged Federico Valverde to embrace the responsibilities of captaining Real Madrid, insisting the midfielder must be ready to serve the team in any position. GOAL reported on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, that Mourinho discussed the Uruguayan’s leadership role during his press conference before Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with AEK Athens.

The Portuguese coach described Valverde as an important member of the squad but explained that the captaincy requires him to prioritise the team’s needs over his preferred position. With Real Madrid facing defensive absences, the midfielder could be asked to fill in at left-back rather than operate in central midfield.

Mourinho believes accepting such assignments is part of being captain, particularly when teammates need support. He expects Valverde to view positional changes as an opportunity to demonstrate leadership and commitment, not as an inconvenience.

“I see Fede as an extremely important player for the team,” Mourinho said.

“The fact of being Real Madrid's captain makes him look around in a different way. When you are the captain, you have to be different. It is a responsibility and I think that will make him play wherever is necessary for his team and for his teammates.”

The manager added that he would have no hesitation in deploying Valverde at left-back if circumstances demanded it. His comments underline the value he places on the player’s adaptability and willingness to put collective interests first.

However, Mourinho acknowledged that Real Madrid also need Valverde in midfield, where his energy and technical quality are important. The club’s options in that area are limited, making his presence centrally valuable even as defensive problems create the possibility of another assignment.

Mourinho referred to Aurélien Tchouaméni, Eduardo Camavinga, Bernardo and Thiago when discussing the midfield resources available. He must weigh those options while deciding how to cover defensive gaps and maintain balance. Valverde’s versatility offers flexibility, but moving him could affect the midfield structure.

The press conference also brought confirmation about Vinícius Júnior’s involvement against AEK Athens. Mourinho said the Brazilian would start, describing him as the player best suited to the left-wing position. That provides clarity about one attacking selection ahead of the European fixture.

Mourinho also stressed the importance of collecting Champions League points. Real Madrid still have work to do to secure direct qualification for the round of 16, making the match significant beyond the immediate result. He will want his side to remain focused and strengthen their position.

Nevertheless, his remarks about Valverde attracted particular attention because they reveal the expectations placed on the captain. The Uruguayan has earned an important role through his work rate, versatility and commitment, qualities Mourinho expects him to demonstrate through leadership as well as performances.

Valverde must balance his influence in midfield with the possibility of helping elsewhere when required. Mourinho’s message was clear: the captain’s responsibility extends beyond wearing the armband. He must adapt, support teammates and make sacrifices whenever the team needs him. His response will be closely watched by Madrid supporters and teammates.