Mourinho finds a winning formula at Real Madrid

Real Madrid under José Mourinho appear to have reached a consistent level of performance after a string of matches that culminated in a commanding display in the El Clásico at Camp Nou. The Portuguese coach has pushed the team toward a high-press, vertical-attacking game and says the squad has absorbed his demands both tactically and physically.

Midfield balance gives the team structure

Mourinho singled out the midfield as the decisive factor in the transformation. He has repositioned Bernardo Silva away from wide duties and handed him central creative responsibility, a move that has stabilised tempo and composure in the middle of the pitch. The so-called "magic square" of Aurélien Tchouaméni, Bernardo Silva, Arda Güler and Jude Bellingham now supplies rhythm, defensive resilience and attacking impetus all at once.

The front line has been equally consistent, with the attacking trio showing close synchronisation and frequent threats down the flanks. Quick wing incursions are combined with immediate collective recovery when possession is lost, helping to choke opponents' plans and turn defence into attack.

On the dressing-room mood Mourinho was optimistic. "That's a quality all the players have now. I saw Kylian (Mbappé) press aggressively. The players are extremely committed, the team is growing and working hard. I'm really pleased with this performance — when attacking players make sacrifices for the team, it helps everyone," the Portuguese coach said.

The manager added that, despite the progress, the team is still building towards full readiness. He stressed that changes to the starting XI will be reserved mostly for rest and rotation of key players now that the tactical ideas are set and the midfield functions reliably. "We are still not 100% ready, but we are progressing. Less than four months is a short time, but we are gradually growing. I learned things I didn't know on the first day, and the players understand my character better and better as a coach. They understand which elements are immutable for me. There is a great mutual empathy between the players and the coach, between my ideas and their qualities. We feel great," Mourinho emphasized.

With a clear plan and a working collective mechanism, Mourinho is looking ahead to upcoming challenges determined to consolidate a starting eleven and playing style that supporters will quickly recognise.

Photo: press material from the event