Mourinho discusses squad readiness and remarks ahead of Sevilla clash
Real Madrid faces another challenging test in La Liga as they prepare to host Sevilla. After a dramatic comeback win against AS Roma in the UEFA Champions League, where they turned a 3-1 deficit into a 4-3 victory, the team is looking to build on that momentum. Jose Mourinho, in his pre-match press conference, acknowledged the fatigue among his players but expressed confidence in their readiness for the upcoming match.
Mourinho stated, "We are tired, but not tomorrow. From what I’ve seen in the medical department, the players who played the most minutes are tired. Tomorrow is another day. We have good options at home to make some changes and bring in fresh legs." He highlighted Sevilla's competitive nature under coach Luis García, noting their resilience in previous matches.
The midfield has been a focal point of concern for Real Madrid, and Mourinho was clear about his expectations for that position. "I ask midfielders to be midfielders. I expect them to do the work a midfielder is supposed to do. Someone who only defends is limited. If they only attack, they would be better off playing out wide or as a No. 10. It is a very difficult position to play. To be a top player, you need a different level of quality," he explained.
In a more controversial segment of the press conference, Mourinho criticized Javier Tebas, the president of La Liga, for his recent comments comparing Real Madrid TV to Nazi propaganda. "You’ve already seen what I think. He has ventured into an area where the only excuse would be a clinical condition. Madrid fans understand what Real Madrid are up against. Even considering the enormous prestige Spanish football enjoys abroad, it is better that he keeps those comments to himself," Mourinho asserted.
Mourinho also took the time to praise young talent Arda Guler, although he refrained from specifying the position he plans to use him in. "There is work being done. Arda is a very talented player; we know that. Obviously, he is not yet a finished product because he is 21. He has the attributes to play in several roles. I’m very happy with him," he said.
Assessing Vinicius Junior's development challenges
Regarding Vinicius Junior, Mourinho reflected on the challenges the young forward faced in the last match, attributing some of the difficulties to the opposing team's tactics. "Vinícius had a very difficult match. Gasperini was primarily responsible for that because he attacked us down just one flank, with three men against Cucurella and him. It is difficult to make changes as a manager when some of the information doesn’t come through properly," he noted.
Mourinho emphasized the importance of hard work for Vinicius's future, stating, "Vini’s future lies in working harder than those who get to play every match. Without making any promises, I think he will start on Wednesday in the Champions League." He expressed satisfaction with the outcome of Vinicius's recent suspension, indicating he expected a harsher penalty.
As the press conference concluded, Mourinho addressed the overall depth of his squad, lamenting that he cannot play all deserving players. "There are many players who deserve to play. More than 11 deserve to play — there are 15 or 16. Lunin deserves to play, and I’m not joking. He works every day alongside the best goalkeeper in the world, stays positive, and still doesn’t play. I can’t put both of them on the pitch. It is the same story with outfield players," he explained.
The Final Whistle
Mourinho also confirmed that Eder Militao would be available for selection, stating, "The good thing is that I don’t have to name the squad just yet. I’m not asking for signings; I’m happy. The players are improving, especially when we have time and peace. I have to develop them." This statement reflects his confidence in the current squad's ability to perform without needing additional signings.
Overall, Mourinho's comments reveal a manager focused on tactical adjustments, player development, and navigating the complexities of managing a high-profile club like Real Madrid. His remarks about Tebas and the midfield dynamics highlight the ongoing challenges he faces as he prepares his team for the match against Sevilla.
