Real Madrid: rich man's problems for José Mourinho

22.08.26 15:30 LaLiga Spain

Espanyol

-

:

Real Madrid

-

Appointed head coach this summer, José Mourinho faces a daunting task: to propel Real Madrid back to the top of Spanish football—and possibly even to European glory—after a disastrous, trophyless season.

To achieve this, the club’s management went all-in during the transfer window, snapping up Yan Diomandé for a record-breaking €125 million—the most expensive signing in club history—alongside Marc Cucurella, Carlos Espi, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konaté, and Bernardo Silva.

Five undroppable spots in Mourinho's starting XI

Los Merengues played four preseason friendlies. After a draw against Fiorentina (2-2), they defeated Ferencvaros (1-2), Deportivo La Coruña (1-0), and Schalke 04 (3-0).

In Mourinho’s trademark 4-2-3-1, four players are guaranteed starters. Alongside keeper Thibaut Courtois, Jude Bellingham will operate as the No. 10, with Yan Diomandé and Vinicius Junior on the wings, and Kylian Mbappé spearheading the attack.

Intense competition across all positions

Competition for places is fierce in the White House squad. Huijsen, Konaté, and Rüdiger are battling for the center-back spots, while Militao’s return from injury is still pending.

On the right, it’s a 50/50 battle between Dumfries and Alexander-Arnold, just as Cucurella and Carreras are vying for the left-back role—with Carreras seizing his chance thanks to his compatriot’s late arrival.

The double pivot? Expect a fierce contest between Tchouameni, Bernardo Silva, and Valverde. One thing is certain: Mourinho is spoiled for choice, and it’s up to him to make the most of this squad in pursuit of the highest honors.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

Related teams and leagues

Espanyol

Real Madrid

LaLiga Spain