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By Ishaan Kapoor — 20 August 2026 — 4 min read

José Mourinho, in his return to Real Madrid, has shared his views on the current football landscape in Spain, offering praise for Barcelona’s project while firmly stating his commitment to his current squad. Speaking on the Spanish programme “El Chiringuito” as the Spanish season commenced, Mourinho addressed various topics, including his admiration for Barcelona’s setup and his stance on potential new signings.

Mourinho expressed approval for the work being done at Barcelona under Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, whom he previously coached at Porto. He stated, “I liked it, it is excellent work carried out between Hansi Flick and Deco, and of course the players, I liked it a lot.”

When questioned about Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s young talent, Mourinho was unequivocal. Despite acknowledging Yamal’s potential, he confirmed he would not seek to sign the player for Real Madrid. “I don’t want him,” Mourinho said. He added that Yamal is a young player with enormous potential and that it is uncommon for someone to be a European and world champion at his age. However, Mourinho emphasised his satisfaction with his current team, stating, “we have a top-class team, I will not make room for any other player at the moment. Right now they are my team’s players, and they are the best.”

Mourinho’s comments served as a message of reassurance to the Real Madrid dressing room, highlighting his confidence in the existing squad. His remarks also conveyed respect for Real Madrid’s traditional rivals, Barcelona.

Squad and Transfer Philosophy

During the interview, Mourinho also discussed his approach to transfers and squad management upon his return to Real Madrid. He clarified that he did not request any specific players immediately upon his arrival. Instead, he carefully analysed the squad and aligned his vision with the club’s.

Mourinho mentioned the initial signings of Dumfries and Konaté, noting that while they might not be players who generate significant social media buzz, they were necessary additions. He explained, “With all due respect to two great players, they’re not the kind of profile that gets people excited and makes social media explode, but we needed them.” He indicated that the club’s transfer activities happened naturally, without him making specific demands.

Regarding the signing of Diomande, Mourinho highlighted the player’s profile as a fast, aggressive winger who can play on either side. He also noted Diomande’s youth and potential for development at Real Madrid. Mourinho stated that when the option to sign Diomande arose, he focused on the player’s profile and what he could offer the team, rather than the transfer fee.

Mourinho also spoke about players like Bernardo Silva, whom he admires for his football intelligence and versatility, capable of playing as a No. 10, on the right, or in midfield. He expressed his long-standing appreciation for Silva’s abilities.

Addressing the absence of players like Kroos and Modric, Mourinho acknowledged their unique qualities, stating, “There’s only one Luka and one Toni.” He also shared his thoughts on Arda Güler, believing that Güler could follow a similar development path to players like Modric or Bernardo Silva, evolving from a No. 10 to an 8 or a 6 as his understanding of the game improves.

Reflections on Return and the Negreira Case

Mourinho shared insights into his return to Real Madrid, describing how the call from the club had a significant impact on him. He felt a mutual desire for his return, stating, “When Madrid called me, that was it: easy. I wanted to go. I had no doubts.” He reflected on the difference between his previous departure and his current return, noting that this time he is coming back without having won anything, but because the club knows what he can bring.

The interview also touched upon the ‘Negreira Case’. Mourinho commented that the case is currently in the hands of the courts. He recalled having suspicions during his previous tenure, stating, “Without knowing who Negreira was, without even knowing that was his name, when I was here, I smelled something. You could feel something strange.” He added that he did not know who was involved at the time but sensed something unusual. Mourinho concluded by stating that the only thing he finds strange now is the justice system.

He further elaborated on the case, suggesting that if the vice president of the referees is being paid, it implies manipulation of the competition. Mourinho referenced the ‘Calciopoli’ scandal in Italy as an example of similar situations being addressed. He also acknowledged the importance of Barcelona to the Spanish league.

Source: goal.com