Vinicius Jr.’s importance at Real Madrid continues to grow both on and off the pitch.

Already one of the club’s biggest stars, the Brazilian is now expected to take on an even greater leadership role ahead in the 2026/27 season.

According to Jose Felix Diaz in AS, Vinicius is set to become Real Madrid’s second captain for the upcoming campaign, ranking only behind Federico Valverde in the club’s new leadership structure.

The development comes at a time when optimism is also increasing over the forward’s long-term future, with fresh contract talks scheduled before pre-season begins.

Contract talks reinforce Vinicius’ status

The Brazilian’s captaincy promotion arrives alongside encouraging progress in negotiations over a new contract.

As reported before, following Brazil’s elimination from the FIFA World Cup, representatives of both Vinicius and Real Madrid agreed to hold another meeting during the final days of July to finalise an extension.

Rather than beginning difficult negotiations, the upcoming discussions are expected to focus on resolving the remaining details of an agreement that both parties already want.

Throughout the process, Vinicius has made it clear that he sees his future in Madrid and club officials have responded with the same commitment, creating growing confidence that one of the team’s most influential players will stay.

Leadership role shows Vinicius’ evolution

Becoming one of Real Madrid’s captains represents another milestone in Vinicius’ journey since arriving from Flamengo as an 18-year-old prospect.

His early years in Spain were marked by intense scrutiny as he adapted to European football, but the winger gradually transformed into one of the club’s defining figures and an increasingly influential presence within the dressing room.

With experienced figures such as Dani Carvajal and David Alaba no longer part of the squad, Real Madrid have naturally looked towards a new generation of leaders.

And in that regard, alongside Federico Valverde, Vinicius now appears ready to become one of the principal voices guiding Mourinho’s team through a new chapter.