Victorious Return and Goal-Fest at the Bernabéu. José Mourinho Hails Mbappé: "This Guy is Incredible"

The 63-year-old Portuguese manager returned to the Real Madrid dugout after 13 years, enjoying a successful debut in the second round against Espanyol Barcelona (2-1). His return to the renovated home stadium for the rescheduled first-round match, postponed due to numerous players participating in the recent World Cup finals, was highly anticipated. However, the seasoned coach admitted he felt no pressure.

“I don't get very nervous or tense before matches anymore. I thoroughly enjoyed it. The last time I was here with Benfica Lisbon, I watched the game from the garage. Today marks my first time at the new Bernabéu. I don't like it when they chant my name. The team is the most important thing, and for me, feeling support is paramount,” Mourinho stated on the club's official website.

Real Madrid's home opener started brightly, with Mbappé opening the scoring in the 40th minute. While the visitors responded with Sučić's equalizer, the home side regained control in the second half. Within 20 minutes, Vinicius Junior found the net, and Mbappé completed his hat-trick with two more goals.

“I don't like comparing players, but this guy is incredible. I see a tremendous hunger in him to make history at Real Madrid. But even though Kylian achieved what he did, it's hard for me not to talk about the team, as it's always a team effort,” the Real Madrid boss admitted.

Beyond Mbappé's performance, Mourinho praised the individual qualities of several other players in his squad. “The center-backs were dominant, Bernardo Silva and Federico Valverde put in hard work, Jude Bellingham created play beautifully. I really liked the second half,” Mourinho confessed, as his team climbed to the top of the incomplete Spanish top-flight table.

Mbappé's three goals were also lauded by his teammates, including new signing Marc Cucurella.

“He's a game-changer, and it's an honor to have him on our side. I hope he continues to score goals. This won't be his last hat-trick of the season. When he's in form, the team is much more dangerous, and I'm happy for him,” said Cucurella, for whom it was his debut at the Santiago Bernabéu.

“It was something special and very emotional. I'm very happy and hope to experience more evenings like this. I felt honored,” the reigning World Cup winner reflected.