After weeks of delays due to presidential elections, Real Madrid has entered its pre-season preparation with Mourinho at the helm. The Portuguese head coach aims to swiftly address key decisions that were stalled, making up for lost time.

Mourinho's immediate priority is to craft the pre-season plan. He will collaborate with club management to determine training locations, friendly match schedules, and the overall preparation roadmap for the 2026-2027 season. The 63-year-old coach also seeks to complete the core squad according to his vision, following Real's confirmed signings of center-back Ibrahima Konate and right-back Denzel Dumfries.

Head coach Jose Mourinho during AS Roma's 3-0 victory over Sheriff Tiraspol in the final group G match of the Europa League at the Olimpico stadium, Rome on 14/12. *Photo: AFP*

Mourinho is also keen on reconnecting with the technical staff at the Valdebebas training center. Many individuals there worked with him during his 2010-2013 tenure, a period considered foundational for Real's resurgence after years of being overshadowed by Barca.

Consistent with his recent teams, Mourinho brings a trusted team of associates, whom he considers the best of his career. His right-hand man is Joao Tralhao, who has been with him since his time at Benfica. Pedro Machado continues in the coaching staff, while Roberto Merella handles opposition analysis. Nuno Santos serves as the goalkeeper coach.

Another notable figure is Antonio Dias, a fitness specialist crucial for building a strong foundation and high intensity of play. This element has been a hallmark of the Portuguese coach's recent teams.

Despite this, Mourinho's coaching staff still lacks one important link. He aims to add a former Real player to act as a bridge between the coach, players, and management. During his first tenure, Aitor Karanka filled this role and was praised for his excellent performance.

This time, former center-back Pepe is the most frequently mentioned candidate. However, Mourinho has not made a final decision. He seeks someone with sufficient credibility in the locker room but not so prominent as to create unintended power centers. In Mourinho's view, the ultimate responsibility always rests with the head coach.

Mourinho and Pepe during their time together at Real Madrid. *Photo: EPA*

Mourinho's greatest regret from his first tenure was not leading Real to European glory. This is also his primary goal for this return. Should he win the Champions League with Real, Mourinho would become the first head coach to triumph in the competition with three different clubs, following Porto and Inter Milan.

Mourinho is actively reshaping the squad. He has identified the type of player he wants: someone with desire, diligence, a strong fighting spirit, and who prioritizes the team over individual ego.

This philosophy directly influences upcoming personnel decisions. Mourinho must identify players no longer in his plans to facilitate their departure, while also clarifying the roles of promising young talents.

One player receiving attention is Thiago Pitarch. The 18-year-old midfielder is a promising talent who could receive more opportunities under Mourinho, provided he meets the requirements for competitive spirit and tactical discipline.

Real is also determined to bring Nico Paz back to the Bernabeu from Como. The Royal club can activate a buy-back clause for 9 million EUR (10 million USD) for the player, who is currently valued at over 50 million EUR (58 million USD). This transfer has the potential to yield significant value both professionally and financially.

Regarding transfers, Mourinho has not yet proposed adding another attacking star, despite Michael Olise being considered capable of significantly boosting the team's offensive power. Instead, he aims to strengthen positions in the defensive and midfield lines.

Beyond Konate and Dumfries, who have already arrived at the Bernabeu, Mourinho continues to request a left-back and two midfielders. One midfielder needs to be creative and capable of playmaking, while the other should focus on ball recovery and balancing the midfield.

By Hoang An (Source: Diario AS)