Madrid: Mourinho reassures squad and praises Barcelona’s project
José Mourinho has returned to Real Madrid with a clear objective to secure titles, and his initial interview has generated considerable discussion in Spain. The Portuguese coach conveyed a dual message, expressing admiration for Barcelona while firmly dismissing any notion of signing their young talent, Lamine Yamal.
Speaking on the Spanish programme “El Chiringuito” as the Spanish football season commenced, Mourinho addressed various topics. Reigning champions Barcelona began their campaign with confidence, while Real Madrid embarked on a new phase under Mourinho’s leadership.
Mourinho’s Assessment of Barcelona and Squad Loyalty
Initially composed, Mourinho soon adopted his characteristic direct style. He openly praised Barcelona’s project, highlighting the collaborative efforts between Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, whom he previously coached at Porto.
“I liked it, it is excellent work carried out between Hansi Flick and Deco, and of course the players, I liked it a lot,” Mourinho stated, conveying his admiration for their work.
The conversation then shifted to Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s young star who is a European and world champion. Mourinho’s response was definitive, demonstrating loyalty to his current squad. “I don’t want him,” he declared. “He is without doubt a young player with enormous potential, it is not usual for someone to be a European and world champion at the age of nineteen, but we have a top-class team, I will not make room for any other player at the moment. Right now they are my team’s players, and they are the best.”
This statement served to reassure the Real Madrid dressing room and acknowledge his rival, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be an engaging season.
Transfer Strategy and Player Development
During the interview, Mourinho also discussed his approach to player acquisitions. When asked about managing the pressure surrounding a high-profile signing like Diomande, he clarified his role. “No, I didn’t ask for anyone. I arrived without asking for anyone, analyzing the squad carefully and knowing what I would like to happen.” He noted that there was significant common ground between his vision and the club’s.
He pointed to early signings like Dumfries and Konaté, describing them as necessary profiles rather than players who generate immediate excitement. “With all due respect to two great players, they’re not the kind of profile that gets people excited and makes social media explode, but we needed them. We’ve always gone in that direction.”
Regarding Diomande, Mourinho highlighted the player’s attributes. “In that situation, finding someone like Diomande – a fast, aggressive winger who can play on either side – isn’t easy. It’s difficult. On top of that, he’s young, he can develop and he has many years ahead of him at Real Madrid.” He added that the transfer fee was not his primary concern, focusing instead on the player’s profile and contribution to the team.
When questioned about Bernardo Silva, Mourinho expressed his long-standing admiration for the player, describing him as a “Pep Guardiola’s player” and a talent he has always loved. He emphasized Silva’s versatility, stating, “for me Bernardo is a midfielder now, but he can play as a No. 10, on the right, come inside… He can play anywhere. He has tremendous football intelligence and he’s a player I’ve always loved.” He clarified that his interest was not driven by rivalry with Atlético or Barça, but by his conviction that Bernardo is a “Real Madrid level” player.
Mourinho also shared his thoughts on player development, particularly concerning Arda Güler. He drew parallels with players like Luka Modric and Bernardo Silva, suggesting that Güler might evolve in his playing position. “I love Güler. I think something similar will happen to him as happened to Modric or Bernardo Silva. You start in one position and finish in another. You start as a No. 10 and end up as an 8, as a 6. I think Arda will move in that direction as he develops and improves his understanding of the game.”
The interview also touched upon Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid. He described the call from Real Madrid as having a significant impact, similar to what he wants players to experience. He noted that his return was based on the club’s understanding of what he can bring, rather than past achievements. “I’m coming back without having won anything. I’m coming because they know me, because they know what I can bring. I’m not coming because I won the treble. I’m coming because they know me. It’s deeper. I’m very happy.”
The second part of the interview with Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho aired on Wednesday.
Source: goal.com
Priya Menon 