Midfielder Schouten tore his ACL in April and is not expected to return to the pitch in 2026.
Mauro Jr., PSV's vice-captain, was subsequently named captain for the remainder of the season. On Thursday, PSV announced that Mauro Jr. will wear the captain's armband as PSV's full-time captain as long as Schouten is out of the running.
The Brazilian defender and midfielder has been the subject of nagging transfer rumours, with Leeds United, Fenerbahce, FC Porto, and several South American clubs reportedly after the 27-year-old.
Mauro Jr. signed a contract extension last year, with his current contract valid through 2029. Nevertheless, the versatile Brazilian reportedly had his eyes set on a move away from the club to get him in the picture for the Brazilian national team.
Mauro Jr. has played 200 games for PSV since joining them from Desportivo Brasil in 2017, scoring 9 goals and assisting a further 23 across all competitions.