Madrid: Mourinho addresses Lamine Yamal questions, praises Barcelona’s project
Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho has returned to the club with a clear mission to secure titles. In a recent interview on the Spanish programme “El Chiringuito,” Mourinho delivered a dual message, offering praise for Barcelona while firmly stating he would not consider signing their young star, Lamine Yamal.
The interview coincided with the start of the Spanish season, with reigning champions Barcelona beginning their campaign with confidence. Real Madrid, under Mourinho’s renewed leadership, is embarking on a new chapter of significant change.
Mourinho’s assessment of Barcelona and his squad
Mourinho, known for his direct style, openly praised Barcelona’s project under Hansi Flick and sporting director Deco, whom he previously coached at Porto. He expressed admiration for the work being done, stating, “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 asked about Lamine Yamal, Barcelona’s teenage European and world champion, Mourinho’s response was decisive. He affirmed his loyalty to his current squad, stating, “I don’t want him. He is without doubt a young player with enormous potential, it is not usual for someone to be a European and world champion at the age of nineteen, but 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.” This statement served to reassure the Real Madrid dressing room.
Mourinho also discussed his approach to player acquisitions since his return. He noted that he did not ask for specific players upon his arrival, instead analyzing the squad carefully. He mentioned the signings of Dumfries and Konaté, acknowledging that while they might not be players who generate significant social media excitement, they were necessary for the team’s direction.
Regarding the signing of Diomande, Mourinho highlighted the player’s profile as a fast, aggressive winger who can play on either side and is young with potential for development at Real Madrid. He stated that the transfer fee was not his primary concern, focusing instead on the player’s attributes and what he could offer the team.
Player development and the Negreira case
Mourinho also spoke about player development, particularly regarding Arda Güler. He drew parallels with players like Luka Modric and Bernardo Silva, suggesting that Güler might evolve in his playing position. He expressed his affection for Güler, anticipating that he would move towards playing as an 8 or a 6 as he develops his understanding of the game.
The interview also touched upon the Negreira case. Mourinho commented that the case is in the hands of the courts. He recalled having suspicions during his previous tenure, sensing “something strange” without knowing the specifics. He noted that it is now known that it was not strange, and the focus is on the justice system to act. He indicated that if the vice president of referees is being paid, it suggests manipulation of the competition, drawing a comparison to the Calciopoli scandal in Italy.
Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid was described as an easy decision for him, with no doubts when the club called. He noted that returning to a club signifies a lot, and he is happy to be back, feeling that the club knows what he can bring.
The interview provided a glimpse into Mourinho’s initial thoughts and strategies as he begins his new chapter with Real Madrid, setting the stage for what is anticipated to be an eventful season.
Source: goal.com
