It has been around a month since Jose Mourinho formally took charge of Real Madrid. Since then, the Portuguese coach has already played a crucial role in dictating the club’s transfer policy.
Much of the work revolving around the six new signings was done by Mourinho, who now has a full-strength team to train with heading into the new season.
In the lead up to the season opener, Mourinho has some initial observations about the team and how they are prepared for the campaign ahead.
Mourinho’s first impressions of Real Madrid
According to Ben Fernandes Santos, Mourinho is increasingly satisfied with his squad, though he is aware there is still plenty of work to be done.
Mourinho is ready for the season ahead. (Photo by David Balogh/Getty Images)
The Portuguese has been encouraged by the improvement his players have shown at a physical level throughout pre-season.
That said, he recognises the team are not yet where he wants them to be, particularly with several stars only recently returning from their extended World Cup breaks.
Mourinho views the coming week as key to consolidating the team’s growth. With the LaLiga opener against Espanyol fast approaching, the coach is keen to use the final stretch of pre-season to fine-tune his side and ensure they are ready to hit the ground running.
Instilling a new DNA
Beyond the physical side, Mourinho’s biggest objective is to instill a new identity in his squad after two trophyless campaigns.
Mourinho wants to build a proper identiy at Real Madrid. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
The DNA the Portuguese wants to establish has already been visible in glimpses during pre-season.
Chief among his demands is intensity, coupled with a genuine commitment to the badge, something Mourinho has long summed up with his mantra of working for Real Madrid.
He also wants to cultivate a combative spirit, forging a group that functions as a real, united team rather than a collection of individuals.
Resilience and sacrifice complete the picture, qualities Mourinho believes are essential if Real Madrid are to reassert their dominance both domestically and in Europe.