José Mourinho, back at Real Madrid after 13 years, deflected praise to his players following their triumph over arch-rivals Barcelona in El Clásico. While savoring the victory, he emphasized that the league title remains the ultimate goal.
Mourinho’s Real Madrid squad edged out Barcelona 2-1 in an away fixture at Camp Nou on Monday, during the 10th round of the 2026-27 La Liga season.
This win improved Real Madrid’s record to 8-2 (24 points, 3rd place), closing the gap to just 3 points behind league-leading Barcelona (9-1, 27 points).
Post-match, Mourinho remarked that it was a spectacular game. The world’s football fans witnessed a high-caliber contest. Both sides fought hard for the win, living up to the fans’ expectations.
He added that the players were phenomenal. Their organization was superb, they maintained focus, and showed incredible courage against a pressing opponent. It’s a precious victory over a formidable rival.
While acknowledging the significance of the El Clásico win, Mourinho stressed the bigger picture: clinching the league title.
He stated that it’s a fantastic win, but when it resumes training, he’ll ensure the players stay grounded. Real Madrid isn’t here just to win at Camp Nou; it’s here to win championships.
Mourinho continued that a 9-point gap would’ve been psychologically daunting. But 3 points? That’s different. This wasn’t luck; they played composed football and fully deserved the win.
This victory holds special significance for Mourinho. In his first El Clásico during his initial Real Madrid stint in November 2010, Barcelona handed him a 5-0 drubbing. Now, 13 years later, he’s returned to claim victory in his first matchup against them.
Mourinho’s bold tactical decisions proved effective.
He deployed Bernardo Silva alongside Aurélien Tchouaméni in central midfield, with Arda Güler on the right wing. Federico Valverde was utilized as a right-back.
Despite Barcelona dominating possession and shots, Real Madrid secured the win through disciplined defense and swift counterattacks.
Andriy Lunin, filling in for flu-stricken starting goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, delivered a standout performance.
Post-game, Mourinho made a beeline for Lunin on the pitch, embracing him warmly and giving a thumbs-up for his stellar play.
Lunin repaid Mourinho’s faith with crucial saves throughout the match.
Mourinho praised the team’s unity, particularly in the absence of their first-choice keeper, Courtois.
He revealed that before kickoff, he told Lunin, You don’t train to warm the bench; you train to play. Get out there and show what you’ve got. Lunin responded with a composed and steady performance.
Mourinho added that they have the world’s best goalkeeper, but nobody fretted when Courtois couldn’t play today. This squad is robust and united.
Mourinho attributed the victory to his players rather than taking credit himself.
He concluded that being on the pitch is far more challenging than making decisions from the sideline. The players deserve to savor this victory. He’s immensely proud of every single one of them.