Mourinho: I Hope All Real Madrid Players at the World Cup Get Eliminated as Soon as Possible
José Mourinho spoke candidly on the "Beast Mode On" podcast, delivering several statements that resonated widely. Real Madrid's new manager clearly outlined his vision for the team and defended the current squad. When the conversation turned to the World Cup and dressing room egos, the Portuguese coach held nothing back.
One of his most striking remarks concerned the World Cup and the Real Madrid players participating in it. Mourinho didn't shy away from stating his position: "What do I expect from the World Cup? I want the Real Madrid players to lose, because I want them back for pre-season training." This message clearly indicates his priority – to have his entire squad in top physical condition from the outset, to prepare for the season without interruptions.
The Portuguese coach emphasized the importance of collective work from day one and how planning cannot be dictated by major international tournaments. For Mourinho, pre-season is a crucial stage for building automatisms and cohesion within the group – something he considers absolutely essential for demanding projects like the one beginning at the Bernabéu.
What defines a player's level?
The Special One also shared a clear stance on how footballers are evaluated. Mourinho was unequivocal in rejecting the idea of considering incomplete players as "good." "Sometimes people say: 'this player has incredible qualities, but physically he's not very good'... then he's not good. Or: 'this player has incredible qualities, but he's not consistent'... then he's not a great player," the coach explained.
In this vein, the Portuguese defined his model for the ideal footballer, leaving no room for doubt. "A great player is the complete package. He must be technically good, physically fit, mentally stable, and a team player." This definition perfectly aligns with his characteristic demanding nature and his belief that success is achieved through collective performance, rather than solely individual talent, which the "white" club relied on excessively in the last two seasons.
Another topic addressed was managing egos in the dressing room, a subject that has generated much discussion in the football world in recent years. Mourinho, far from seeing it as a problem, interprets it as a consequence of having the best players. "Managing egos? That's the best problem a coach can have. The best players are the best problem for a coach," he stated.
Mourinho already speaks as Real Madrid's coach
The Portuguese specialist also sought to quash any speculation regarding potential drastic squad decisions. In response to rumors of a possible "clear-out" after a difficult season, he was clear in his position: "I read that people say Mourinho will come to Real Madrid and get rid of players who supposedly had problems last season. No. I want these players. I want the best players." He concluded his thought with the project's main objective: "Now I have to find a way to turn them into a team."
Thus, Mourinho makes it clear that his plan is not to dismantle the dressing room, but to improve the collective level of a talented squad that aims to compete for all titles once again. A new campaign awaits, which will undoubtedly be marked by maximum demands under Mourinho's leadership, full control over the group, and above all – a very clear understanding of what it means to compete at the highest level.