What's Happening?
José Mourinho has officially started his second term as the manager of Real Madrid, initiating pre-season activities at the Valdebebas training facility on July 13, 2026. The day began with medical examinations at the Clínica Sanitas, followed by Mourinho's
first training session in the afternoon. The session was notably stripped-back, as several key players, including Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Jr, and Thibaut Courtois, were absent due to World Cup commitments. These players are expected to return gradually. Present at the session were Eduardo Camavinga, Franco Mastantuono, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Dean Huijsen, who are among the first to train under Mourinho. The manager plans to utilize players from the Castilla to fill squad numbers during training sessions. This pre-season marks a new era for Real Madrid, following a period of instability with previous managers Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa.
Why It's Important?
Mourinho's return to Real Madrid is significant as it represents a strategic move by the club to restore consistency and achieve results. The club has experienced a turbulent period with frequent managerial changes, which has affected its performance and ability to secure silverware. Mourinho's appointment is expected to bring stability and a renewed focus on leveraging the individual quality of the squad. His experience and previous success with the club could be pivotal in navigating the challenges posed by the World Cup calendar and integrating returning players. The success of this new era under Mourinho will be closely watched by fans and stakeholders, as it could influence the club's standing in domestic and international competitions.
What's Next?
A formal press presentation for Mourinho has not yet been scheduled, and the club's transfer activity remains uncertain. Both incoming and outgoing transfers are possible, although the core structure of the squad is reportedly settled. The real test of Mourinho's impact will come once the full squad is available and the competitive season begins. Observers will be keen to see how Mourinho's strategies and player management translate into performance on the field, especially in light of the club's recent history of managerial instability.
