After a challenging recent season, Real Madrid has opted to initiate a new project under the guidance of one of Europe’s most seasoned coaches, Jose Mourinho. He was officially named the new manager on June 11 and has since been laying the groundwork for this new chapter in his career.
Utilizing modern technology, Mourinho has been working remotely to build his staff and structure his plans for the upcoming preseason, which kicks off on July 13.
Days before preseason training begins, Diario AS reported that Mourinho returned to Valdebebas after a 13-year absence. During his first appearance back as manager of Los Blancos, he toured the club facilities and met the staff he’ll be collaborating with in person for the first time.
While there, Mourinho shared his vision for this new journey:
“Words aren’t enough… because this is like a mission. It’s not about worrying about myself or whether I’ll win more or less. I’m here to help everyone become better—players, staff… To create a culture of hard work, responsibility, ambition, and something I know very well: the responsibility and the honor of working for Real Madrid. I really like that concept.”
“It’s not about working at Real Madrid; it’s about working for Real Madrid. And it’s with that sense of mission that I’m here.”
Despite it being his first day back at Valdebebas, he emphasized that he had already been actively working:
“We’ve been working very hard. It’s not as if I arrived today and everything started. We’ve been collaborating with the club’s structure at different levels. Nowadays, you can work without being physically present because technology aids us significantly. Today was mainly about arriving and reviewing what’s already been accomplished and what still needs to be done.”
Mourinho expressed eagerness to meet both the first team players and youth academy talents:
“We need to make the most of the next two weeks with a positive attitude because I want to have all the players here. It’s time to get to know the players I’ll be working with and for them to get to know me. Many players from Castilla will also be joining, and I take great pleasure in participating in their development. I come with a strong sense of confidence, a deep love for this club… Hala Madrid, and nothing more!”
In terms of his coaching staff, Mourinho will retain the same team he had at Benfica, which includes Joao Tralhao, Pedro Machado, Roberto Merella, Nuno Santos, and Antonio Dias. However, an important addition will be Sami Khedira, who will serve as his assistant manager.
As for players, Mourinho will commence the preseason with only a handful from the first team, who will gradually return as they conclude their vacations and World Cup commitments. It is hoped that this new phase in Real Madrid’s history will yield moments of glory and unforgettable memories for the club, its players, and the coach.