Madrid captain Valverde enjoying tough love from Mourinho

Federico Valverde acknowledges Jose Mourinho can be a tough mentor at times, but Real Madrid's new captain believes that coaching style will help the team improve.

Valverde has been handed the armband on a permanent basis ahead of the 2026-27 season following Dani Carvajal's departure, having previously served as vice-captain.

The Uruguay international played 86 minutes as Los Blancos beat Ferencvaros 2-1 in their latest pre-season friendly on Saturday, with youngsters Mario Rivas and Carlos Espi scoring.

Bernardo Silva made his Madrid debut as a substitute, with Vinicius Junior and Trent Alexander-Arnold also appearing off the bench, while Endrick, Eduardo Camavinga and Denzel Dumfries were among the other notable starters.

Mourinho is aiming to bring major silverware back to Madrid in his second stint in charge, having won LaLiga and the Copa del Rey during his previous spell, between 2010 and 2013.

Madrid have not won either of those competitions – or the Champions League – in the last two seasons. The last time they went three successive campaigns without winning any of those trophies was between 2003-04 and 2005-06.

Asked what had surprised him most about working with Mourinho, Valverde said, as quoted by Diario AS: "Well, he's very close to the players.

"In the end, his character is always there. Sometimes he is tough, but I think that's the way he can make you improve. I like how he treats us, how he treats me."

Valverde also could not hide his excitement at the prospect of forming a midfield partnership with Silva, saying of the former Manchester City man: "He's spectacular.

"He is a magical player on a day-to-day basis. The truth is that he is an excellent person, who fits in very well with the whole team.

"He's very funny, and it's good to learn from him. He is a great player. I have always admired him as a rival, and to be able to have him with us is a great joy."

Reports in recent days have suggested that Madrid have suffered a blow in their pursuit of another City icon, with 2024 Ballon d'Or winner Rodri keen on joining rivals Barcelona.

But Valverde would not be drawn on those rumours, saying his main focus is playing a leadership role in the dressing room.

"I can only speak for myself: I'm focused on my club and my team-mates," he said. "I have a lot of responsibility, wearing the captain's armband.

"Every day I try to make sure that each of the players who are in the dressing room are happy and show good energy. I care more about them."

Madrid face Deportivo de A Coruna and Schalke in their final two friendlies next week, before visiting Espanyol for their opening fixture in LaLiga on August 22.