José Mourinho has returned to Real Madrid with a clear objective to secure titles. In a recent interview on the Spanish programme “El Chiringuito,” Mourinho delivered a dual message, offering praise for Barcelona while firmly stating he would not consider signing their young talent, Lamine Yamal.
The interview coincided with the start of the Spanish season, with reigning champions Barcelona entering the campaign with confidence. Real Madrid, under Mourinho’s renewed leadership, is embarking on a new chapter of significant change.
Mourinho’s candid assessment
Mourinho, known for his direct style, began calmly but quickly adopted his characteristic candor. He openly praised Barcelona’s project, highlighting the work of 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, expressing his admiration for their efforts.
The conversation then shifted to Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage star, who is a European and world champion. Mourinho’s response was decisive and unexpected, demonstrating strong loyalty to his current squad.
“I don’t want him,” Mourinho declared. He acknowledged Yamal’s significant potential, noting, “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 while also showing respect for their long-standing rival, setting an intriguing tone for the upcoming season.
Squad decisions and player profiles
During the interview, Mourinho also discussed his approach to squad building and player acquisitions. He clarified that he did not request any specific signings upon his return to Real Madrid, preferring to analyze the existing squad and align with the club’s vision.
He mentioned the initial signings of Dumfries and Konaté, noting that while they might not be players who generate widespread excitement on social media, they were necessary additions for the team. Mourinho emphasized his focus on a player’s profile and what they can contribute to the team.
Regarding a player like Diomande, described as a fast, aggressive winger capable of playing on either side, Mourinho stated, “When that option came up, I didn’t want to analyze whether it was $140 million, $93 million, $47 million or $23 million. I analyze the player’s profile and what he can give my team, and in that sense I said: ‘Yes, I want him.'”
Mourinho also spoke about Bernardo Silva, acknowledging him as a player he admires. He described Bernardo as a versatile midfielder who can play in various positions, including as a No. 10 or on the right. Mourinho expressed his long-standing appreciation for Bernardo’s football intelligence, stating, “I was convinced Bernardo is Real Madrid level.”
When asked about the absence of players like Kroos and Modric, who were known for dictating play, Mourinho simply responded, “There’s only one Luka and one Toni.” He also shared his admiration for Arda Güler, predicting a similar development path for him as for Modric or Bernardo Silva, where a player starts in one position and evolves into another, moving from a No. 10 to an 8 or a 6 as they develop their understanding of the game.
Reflections on the Negreira case
The interview also touched upon the ‘Negreira Case’. Mourinho stated that the matter is currently in the hands of the courts. He recalled having suspicions during his previous tenure at Real Madrid, saying, “Without knowing who Negreira was, without even knowing that was his name, when I was here, I smelled something. You could feel something strange. I didn’t know who it was, but it was strange.”
He further commented on the implications, asking, “If the vice president of the referees is being paid, is that manipulation of the competition? Obviously.” Mourinho suggested that courage is needed to address such issues, drawing a parallel to the ‘Calciopoli’ scandal in Italy. He concluded by stating, “The Spanish league needs Barça.”
Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid and his candid remarks have certainly generated discussion as the new season gets underway.
Source: goal.com
