Jose Mourinho, returning to the helm of Real Madrid, presents a notably more composed demeanor as he prepares for his inaugural home match against Real Sociedad since 2013. The seasoned coach, now 63, reflects on a transformation, asserting greater control over his emotional responses. While acknowledging potential frustrations, he highlights his team's initial success and collective dedication as factors contributing to his current tranquility. Mourinho prioritizes the team's spirit and fan support over personal accolades, aiming to instill a resilient mindset that strengthens the Bernabeu.
Mourinho's initial tenure with Real Madrid was marked by passionate outbursts, notably an incident with then-Barcelona coach Tito Vilanova in 2011. However, his return signals a shift, with the manager expressing a newfound serenity. This change in temperament was evident after their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Espanyol, where he commendably praised both his opponents and the referee. Mourinho is focused on fostering a collective drive, stating, "I like that people work for Real Madrid, not just at Real Madrid." He believes the team's commitment to excellence has so far shielded him from his more intense tendencies, indicating a positive environment within the squad.
The coach's humility extends to his desire for the Bernabeu's reception. He wishes for the fans to wholeheartedly support the team, recognizing their shared passion and dedication, rather than focusing solely on his return. Mourinho emphasizes the importance of the players' hunger to win and their unwavering attitude, resilience, and composure in the face of challenging matches. He hopes this mentality will resonate with the supporters, creating an even more formidable atmosphere at their home stadium.
Ahead of the Real Sociedad clash, Aurelien Tchouameni has been omitted from the squad. Mourinho has also indicated a cautious approach with players like Jude Bellingham, who had extensive World Cup campaigns, to manage their workload. Their opponents, Real Sociedad, will welcome Goncalo Guedes back into their squad for the first time since his World Cup withdrawal due to injury, as they seek to recover from their opening 1-0 defeat to Real Betis.
In essence, Mourinho's return to Real Madrid is characterized by a conscious effort to maintain a calmer, more controlled approach. He champions a philosophy of collective effort and steadfast determination, aiming to channel the team's energy and the fans' passion into a united force for success on the field. His focus remains squarely on the team's performance and the cultivation of a winning mentality, rather than personal prominence.
