Why Courtois is ahead of Vinicius in Real Madrid's captain order

Real Madrid is starting a new era. With Modric and Lucas Vázquez leaving, the armband is changing hands. Starting with the 2025-26 season, the new captains will be, in this order: Dani Carvajal, Fede Valverde, Thibaut Courtois, and Vinicius Junior.

The criteria are simple: the four with the most seniority in the first team squad.

There's the detail that's raised questions among many fans.  Why is Courtois ahead of Vinicius if both arrived the same summer?

Vinicius went through Castilla, Courtois didn't

The difference is in their paths. Courtois arrived in the summer of 2018 and from day one joined the first team. He was a starter under Lopetegui, although his first year wasn't easy. Over time, he became undisputed.

Vinicius also arrived in 2018. But during his first months, he played for Castilla. Zidane didn't count on him yet, and he had to gain experience in Segunda B. Although he was presented before the Belgian goalkeeper, his official debut with the first team came weeks later.

This nuance has been key for the club when establishing the captain order. For Madrid, seniority starts counting from integration into the first team.

Courtois, a leader on and off the field

The goalkeeper has earned respect in the locker room. He doesn't hesitate to raise his voice when necessary, even publicly. He has been critical of coaches, teammates, and directors. He carries weight.

His contract ends in 2026, but everything is agreed for the goalkeeper to renew his contract this summer. It will be official in the coming weeks.

Vinicius is the fourth captain. He has experienced a spectacular evolution: from a criticized prospect to a Bernabéu idol. His role has been key in the post-Cristiano era.

However, his current situation isn't simple. The club still hasn't finalized his renewal. He has a contract until 2027, but the noise about his future doesn't stop.

Even so, if Carvajal, Valverde, or Courtois aren't on the field, Vini will wear the armband. It's a gesture of trust that confirms his status in the locker room.

Courtois is ahead of him in the order, yes, but Vinicius is already a reference for the new Madrid.