The first day of pre-season is often about easing players back into work after the summer break. That, however, was never going to be the case with Jose Mourinho.

From the moment he stepped onto the training pitch at Valdebebas, the Portuguese coach made it clear that his second spell at Real Madrid will begin with new standards rather than fresh promises.

Advertisement

Training sessions have started, and Mourinho’s biggest message was not tactical – it was psychological.

According to reports from Mundo Deportivo, it appears that the former Champions League-winning coach wants his players to rediscover something he believes has gradually disappeared over the last two seasons: the mentality that once defined Real Madrid.

Mourinho’s squad rebuild is not finished yet

While the focus has naturally been on preparations for the new campaign, Mourinho is also looking beyond the training ground.

The outlet mentions that the Portuguese manager is satisfied with much of the business Real Madrid have completed so far.

The arrival of Ibrahima Konate has strengthened the defence, while the club has also made moves in other areas of the squad by signing Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva and Denzel Dumfries.

Even so, Mourinho believes there are still important gaps to address before the transfer window closes.

What’s the story?

Simply put, his priority is understood to be the signing of another central midfielder capable of bringing balance and control, alongside an additional centre-back to further strengthen the defensive unit.

Upon second thought, the requests are hardly surprising.

Throughout his managerial career, Mourinho has built title-winning teams on defensive solidity and physical dominance in midfield.

Those positions remain the foundation of his football philosophy, regardless of the attacking talent available elsewhere in the squad.

Real Madrid have made Mourinho one thing clear

The club are listening to Mourinho’s wishes, but they have also drawn a line.

According to the report, Real Madrid’s sporting department have informed the coach that further arrivals will depend largely on departures.

Simply put, unless players leave the current squad, such as Raul Asencio and Eduardo Camavinga, there is little room to complete additional deals under the club’s current planning.

This means much of the focus is expected to be on squad assessment rather than new signings, at least for now.