According to Marca, Real Madrid captain Valverde faces competition for a midfield spot this season, having grown from joining in 2016 to his current core position.

The Real Madrid captain's armband has never been an easy symbol. It represents dedication and a heavier responsibility at the Bernabéu than anywhere else in world football.

Marca states that this appointment is also a purely competitive challenge for the Uruguayan. In addition to leading the team under Portuguese coach José Mourinho, he must establish himself in a highly competitive midfield.

Mourinho will employ a double pivot system, but 3 candidates are vying for only 2 positions.

After the failed acquisition of Rodri, new signing Bernardo Silva has become an indispensable part of the team's attacking organization, and the only true attacking midfielder and playmaking option Mourinho has.

Mourinho now faces a difficult choice for the remaining starting spot, and the competition between Tchouameni and Valverde is intensifying.

This competition is particularly sensitive and more explosive. Last season, the two clashed at the Valdebebas training ground, and the Uruguayan was hospitalized as a result.

Although they have moved past it and their relationship has eased, the reality remains: they are still vying for the same position; and if Bernardo Silva is absent, they will also share midfield organizational duties.

Their characteristics are completely different. Valverde has strong spatial coverage, abundant stamina, and can help teammates by constantly running. He can also play as a right winger, but the arrival of Diomande complicates this option.

In contrast, Tchouameni fits Mourinho's tactical ideas better. He is defensively solid, has good ball control, and his main task is to protect Bernardo Silva and undertake defensive work.

Captain Valverde had a clear advantage at the start of the season: he was one of the first players to return after the World Cup, played in all pre-season warm-up matches, was in good form, and also acted as a spokesman to the media, expressing his appreciation for Mourinho and new signings like Bernardo Silva.

Conversely, Tchouameni was not fully prepared at the start of the season. He did not participate in any warm-up matches and was the only player in the squad who did not take part in pre-season training.

The long and demanding schedule will provide ample playing opportunities for both, but the real test is to convince Mourinho that they deserve to occupy a core position in the team.

For Valverde, the best way to honor the captain's armband is to prove himself on the field, game after game, rather than relying on his status to secure a position.

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