Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho described his return to work at Valdebebas as being “on a mission” after completing his opening day on Friday, as he begins shaping preparations for the 2026-27 campaign.
Key takeaways
- Mourinho wrapped up his first day at Valdebebas on Friday while preparing for the 2026-27 season.
- Real Madrid’s pre-season begins on Monday.
- Madrid will face Fiorentina in a friendly in Klagenfurt, Austria, on Aug. 1.
- The Aug. 1 match will mark Mourinho’s first appearance in charge.
- The coach is tasked with restoring momentum following two consecutive trophyless seasons.
Pre-season schedule and Mourinho’s first test
With the build-up underway, Madrid are set to start pre-season on Monday and will then travel for a friendly against Fiorentina. The game is scheduled for Aug. 1 in Klagenfurt, Austria, and it will be Mourinho’s first match back with the squad in a coaching capacity.
Return to the job and the challenge ahead
Speaking to Real Madrid TV, the 63-year-old Mourinho said he feels a strong connection to the club and that the moment carries a sense of purpose. He added that the situation is more than just routine work, describing it as a mission and expressing confidence in the role.
Mourinho returns to Madrid with the goal of getting the team back on track after failing to win trophies in two straight seasons. Those trophyless campaigns followed the spells of Carlo Ancelotti, then Xabi Alonso, with Álvaro Arbeloa also part of the period since the team last tasted success.
