Xabi Alonso Announces Federico Valverde as New Captain of Real Madrid

Muhe - Tuesday, 26 August 2025 | 09:00 AM (WIB)

Xabi Alonso Announces Federico Valverde as New Captain of Real Madrid

The 2025/26 season is a new beginning for Real Madrid, especially after there was a change of guard in the team leadership. Xabi Alonso, who recently took office as Los Blancos coach, made a stunning breakthrough by appointing Federico Valverde as one of the team captains. His decision was well backed, considering that Valverde has demonstrated leadership qualities and excellent commitment throughout his stay at the club.Federico Valverde joined Real Madrid in 2016 and has grown to become one of the world's best midfielders. In nearly a decade, he has played more than 200 games, scored over 20 goals, and played an important role in the conquest of numerous titles, including three La Liga titles, two Champions Leagues, and two FIFA Club World Cups. His strength, pace, and vision set him apart in midfield, and his combativeness gave him the potential to be a captain at a young age.

The Ideal Player

Xabi Alonso views Valverde as the perfect player to captain the side because he possesses the ideal mix of experience, technique, and leadership. Alonso noted that Valverde has the same characteristics as Steven Gerrard: inspiring the team, playing in a variety of positions, and not being shy about taking pressure in critical situations. Alonso's hard work philosophy, discipline, and team spirit are matched by Valverde's personality, and thus this signing is a strategic step towards the formation of a tough and resilient team.Valverde himself welcomed this new challenge. During a pre-season interview, he spoke of being appointed captain as a childhood dream come true. He feels honored to be captain of one of the biggest clubs in the world, a club that has given him so many opportunities to develop and showcase his talent. Valverde emphasized that being a captain is not just about wearing the armband, but about setting a good example, motivating teammates, and communicating effectively on the pitch. He said he wanted to lead the team to success through good teamwork.

A big challenge

As the new captain, Valverde has a huge challenge ahead. Real Madrid is a club that has high expectations, both domestically in La Liga and in European competition. Each game will be a test of Valverde's captaincy and how he is able to keep the team balanced. But with the help of Xabi Alonso and other veteran players, like Dani Carvajal, Thibaut Courtois, and Vinícius Júnior, Valverde should be able to handle this pressure with ease.Valverde's appointment also reflects Real Madrid's effort to balance experience and youth. With Dani Carvajal as the main captain, Valverde as vice-captain, and Courtois and Vinícius Júnior as shared captains, the club has rightly accomplished a balanced leadership. The experience of the senior team and the energy of the young generation are bound to be the ideal mix to address this season's challenges.Overall, Xabi Alonso's decision to appoint Federico Valverde as the new captain signals the beginning of a new era at the Santiago Bernabéu. With Valverde's player quality, dedication, and leadership qualities, Real Madrid is looking to sustain its success and gain new victories. The 2025/26 season will be the real test for Valverde, but fans hope he will be able to lead Los Blancos to victory.