Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho recently discussed his return to the club and shared his views on various football matters during an interview on the Spanish programme “El Chiringuito.” The interview, aired in two parts, covered topics ranging from his squad philosophy to his thoughts on rival clubs.
Mourinho expressed admiration for Barcelona’s current project under Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco. He stated, “I liked it, it is excellent work carried out between Hansi Flick and Deco, and of course the players, I liked it a lot.” This praise came as the Spanish season commenced, with reigning champions Barcelona starting their campaign.
Despite his positive remarks about Barcelona, Mourinho was decisive when asked about signing their young star, Lamine Yamal. He firmly stated, “I don’t want him.” While acknowledging Yamal’s potential as a young player who is a European and world champion at nineteen, Mourinho emphasized his loyalty to his current squad. He added, “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.”
Mourinho’s comments served as a message of reassurance for the Real Madrid dressing room, highlighting his confidence in his existing players. He indicated that his focus is on the current squad, suggesting no immediate plans to bring in additional players.
Squad Philosophy and Player Acquisitions
During the interview, Mourinho also touched upon his approach to player acquisitions since returning to Real Madrid. He clarified that he did not specifically ask for any players upon his arrival. Instead, he analyzed the squad and found significant common ground with the club’s vision.
He mentioned the signings of Dumfries and Konaté, noting that while they might not be the type of players to generate widespread excitement on social media, they were necessary additions. Mourinho explained that the club has consistently moved in this direction, and things happened naturally without him making specific demands.
Regarding a player like Diomande, described as a fast, aggressive winger capable of playing on either side, Mourinho stated that finding such a profile is challenging. He approved the signing based on the player’s profile and potential contribution to the team, regardless of the transfer fee. He highlighted Diomande’s youth and potential for development at Real Madrid.
Mourinho also discussed his appreciation for Bernardo Silva, whom he considers a player of Pep Guardiola’s type. He described Silva as a midfielder who can play various roles, including as a No. 10 or on the right, praising his football intelligence. Mourinho expressed his long-standing admiration for Silva, stating that he is a player he has “always loved” and is “Real Madrid level.”
When asked about the absence of players like Kroos and Modric, Mourinho acknowledged their unique qualities, stating, “There’s only one Luka and one Toni.” He also spoke highly of Arda Güler, suggesting that Güler’s development might see him transition through different midfield positions, similar to Modric or Bernardo Silva.
Return to Real Madrid and Negreira Case
Mourinho shared insights into his return to Real Madrid, describing the call from the club as having a significant impact on him. He expressed his immediate desire to return, stating, “When Madrid called me, that was it: easy. I wanted to go. I had no doubts.” He noted that his return felt deeper this time, as he is coming back because the club knows what he can bring, rather than solely based on past triumphs.
The interview also touched upon the Negreira case. Mourinho commented that the case is currently in the hands of the courts. He recalled having suspicions during his previous tenure at Real Madrid, stating, “Without knowing who Negreira was, without even knowing that was his name, when I was here, I smelled something. You could feel something strange.” He added that while he didn’t know the specifics at the time, the situation felt “strange.” Mourinho suggested that if the vice president of the referees’ committee was being paid, it would constitute manipulation of the competition, drawing a parallel to the Calciopoli scandal in Italy.
Mourinho’s interview provided a clear indication of his immediate priorities and his confidence in the Real Madrid squad as the new season begins.
Source: goal.com
