Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has voiced concern about September’s extended international window, stressing how long his players will be away from the club.
Ahead of Sunday’s home La Liga game against Málaga (16:00 BST), Mourinho said the biggest issue is players who report for national duty but see little or no action. Those who play regularly worry him less; it’s the ones who travel, train, and then sit out matches that he finds most problematic. Being without a large part of his squad for three weeks, he added, is a tough situation, though the staff will work with those who remain to keep preparation on track.
Next month’s first international break of the 2026-27 men’s season will run a week longer than usual after the traditional October window was scrapped. In recent years FIFA has used five main international slots—March, June, September, October and November. Now, instead of separate September and October pauses, there will be a single three-week block across late September and early October, allowing countries to play four games instead of two. The November, March and June breaks stay in place.
The change reflects several factors, including the 2026 World Cup final being staged on 19 July—the latest World Cup final date since 1966—as well as player welfare and travel logistics.
Mourinho said he respects players’ choices and doesn’t want to exaggerate the issue, but noted injuries often occur during or just after international duty. Still, he acknowledged there is little the club can do beyond careful planning.
He has already discussed the heavy summer workloads carried by several World Cup players in his squad—among them Jude Bellingham, Marc Cucurella and Kylian Mbappé—and said Madrid are managing minutes to reduce injury risk.
Mourinho also singled out Bellingham for praise, emphasizing his value beyond goals and assists. He highlighted the midfielder’s mentality, tactical acumen, ball recovery, pressing, and influence in advanced areas. While stars like Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Bellingham grab attention, Mourinho said he is delighted with the entire group, adding that the club is blessed with exceptional talent.