Real Madrid Begins Pre-Season Training with 1-0 Victory Over Alcorcon
Real Madrid advanced in Jose Mourinho’s pre-season preparations by holding their first training match of the summer against Alcorcon.
Fans were eager to see how the Portuguese coach would organize his team and to identify emerging tactical patterns.
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According to MARCA, the afternoon at the Alfredo Di Stefano Stadium offered supporters an early glimpse into Mourinho’s methods, the coaching staff, and the first tactical ideas forming ahead of the new season.
Mourinho Begins Shaping His Team
The session commenced with fitness work led by Antonio Pintus and Antonio Dias, Mourinho’s long-time fitness coach.
Los Blancos players have faced numerous injuries in recent seasons, and this collaboration aims to alleviate those issues.
Following the warm-up, the players engaged in rondos directed by assistant coach Joao Tralhao before Mourinho took a more active role during the practice match.
Real Madrid registered a 1-0 win over Alcorcon. (Picture credit: Instagram/@realmadrid)
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The Portuguese coach’s initial starting line-up included Andriy Lunin in goal, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Raul Asencio, Dean Huijsen, and Alvaro Carreras in defense, with Eduardo Camavinga, Cestero, and Arda Guler in midfield, and Franco Mastantuono, Gonzalo Garcia, and academy forward Gabri Valero leading the attack.
Mastantuono Makes an Early Impression
Mastantuono stood out as the standout performer, showcasing energy throughout the opening period.
The Argentine earned an early penalty after a direct run, although Arda Guler could not convert, continuing Madrid’s penalty woes.
As Mastantuono’s future at the club remains uncertain and a loan deal could be on the cards, this performance was significant for the young player.
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The match concluded with a 1-0 victory for Madrid, as Daniel Yanez found the net from a late penalty.
Trent Alexander-Arnold started under Mourinho. (Picture credit: Instagram/@realmadrid)
First-team players participated for about 70 minutes before youth-team players joined for the remainder of the session.
Off the pitch, Federico Valverde, Rodrygo, and Eder Militao observed from the stands as they continued their own training, while Ferland Mendy remains in recovery alongside Militao and Rodrygo.
Positive Signs, but Perspective is Needed
Pre-season training matches typically do not yield definitive conclusions, yet they provide valuable insights into a coach’s priorities.
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Mastantuono’s confidence, the involvement of several Castilla prospects, and Mourinho’s readiness to experiment were all apparent.
While some dynamics may shift as World Cup participants return, Mourinho’s Madrid has kicked off the season with a win, which is promising for the time being.
