Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santiago Canizares has launched a scathing attack on the club’s current captaincy group during an appearance on the program “Tactics Board,” claiming that Dani Carvajal, Federico Valverde, and Vinicius Junior all lack the necessary leadership to wear the armband. He stated bluntly that “these three captains must go” and recommended Thibaut Courtois as the first-choice captain moving forward.
Canizares, speaking on the show, delivered one of the most incisive critiques of Real Madrid’s current state. The former shot-stopper analyzed the internal dynamics of the dressing room, specifically targeting the club’s current captains for failing to stabilize the team during its most difficult period. According to him, the problem is not just with management or on-field performance, but extends into the heart of the squad.
“The issue is deep in the dressing room, in the core, and it involves the captains,” Canizares said. He first took aim at Dani Carvajal, arguing that prolonged injuries have rendered him ineffective in a leadership role. “Carvajal no longer plays, so he has naturally lost his influence over the dressing room and no longer contributes to it. He shouldn’t be given a new contract.”
Next, his criticism turned fiercer toward Federico Valverde, the Uruguayan midfielder. “Valverde, the second captain, is a man without leadership. He hasn’t fulfilled his duties as a captain,” Canizares stated. He added that Valverde “was at the center of the last conflict, not only starting it but failing to act as a captain should. Put him on the transfer list.”
The most harsh comments were reserved for Vinicius Junior. Canizares questioned the Brazilian’s attitude in certain matches, alleging that he failed to embody the values expected of a Real Madrid captain. “That day he wore the captain’s armband and was busy showing off our 15 Champions League titles, rather than stepping up and shouldering what needed to be carried in such a shameful season for the club.” He insisted Vinicius’s actions were far from the demeanor required from a Real Madrid leader. “That was not the right time or way to take a dig at Barcelona by reminding them of our 15 European Cups.” He added that the fans expect “a completely different type of player from Vinicius, not one who puts himself above everything and prioritizes personal interests over the team.”
Canizares also pointed to Vinicius’s contract situation as an additional reason to move him on: “I put Vinicius on the transfer list for another reason – he only has one year left on his deal and hasn’t signed an extension.”
For Canizares, Real Madrid must rediscover an identity closer to its historic tradition. “There is a portion of fans who prefer a Real Madrid that adheres to its own values, stays true to its roots – the club that became Europe’s gentleman and sovereign through those 15 Champions League titles.” He concluded with a ruthless verdict: “These three captains must leave.”
On Kylian Mbappe’s future, Canizares believes the French star should stay. “Since we’re already putting others on the market, I think we should give Mbappe another chance, but it must come with a set of conditions, requirements, and commitments.”
In his analysis, Canizares also outlined the future leadership structure, clearly stating who should wear the armband. “For me, the order should put Courtois first as the main captain, because he is currently the most focused and professional player.” Canizares argued that Courtois should have already been ahead of Vinicius in the captaincy hierarchy. “By seniority, he should have been the third captain before Vinicius; they are from the same year group.” He concluded that the club must begin rebuilding by establishing a completely new internal order.