Real Madrid News
Former Real Madrid midfielder explains why Mourinho is perfect fit for the club: ‘He is a cross between army colonel and orchestra conductor’
Esteban Granero believes Jose Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid is exactly what the club needs, backing his former manager to succeed during his second spell in charge.
Granero, who worked under Mourinho during his time at the Santiago Bernabeu, spoke to AS about the Portuguese coach, Real Madrid’s chances this season and the remarkable form of Kylian Mbappe.
For the former midfielder, there is little mystery surrounding Mourinho’s credentials, as his familiarity with the club makes the appointment particularly convincing in Granero’s eyes.
What makes Mourinho different
Asked about Mourinho’s return, Granero was unequivocal in his assessment, stating,
“I think it’s great news for both Real Madrid and Mourinho. He’s a manager whose qualities and abilities need no introduction or explanation. He knows the club better than any other manager.
“I believe that Real Madrid, given the circumstances they find themselves in, are backing a very reliable manager who will do very well for them.”
Granero also offered a memorable description of the manager’s personality, drawing on his own experience of working with him.
“If I had to describe him, I’d say Mourinho is a cross between an army colonel and an orchestra conductor. He has the firmness and authority often associated with the army.
“I believe a football team must, in part, be like an army in terms of loyalty, unity and the collective fight for a common goal.
“That stems from his knowledge of football, his tactical experience, his analysis of opponents and his analytical skills. He is exceptionally gifted in all these areas.”
Granero backs Real Madrid as La Liga favourites
There was little hesitation when Granero was asked whether Madrid should be considered favourites for La Liga.
“They’re the favourites for everything, as always.”
His confidence is understandable given the attacking talent available to Mourinho, with Mbappe already producing numbers that have attracted widespread attention.
Granero believes the Frenchman belongs in a rare category of footballers.
“He’s a very special player. It’s been a very long time since we’ve seen a footballer like him.
“I struggle to recall players with such mastery of all aspects of the game and with such attacking prowess. He’s a force to be reckoned with, a weapon of mass destruction.”
The comparison with Cristiano Ronaldo was inevitable, and Granero sees a connection despite clear differences between the two forwards.
“They’re very different players, but you can tell that Cristiano was Kylian’s idol. And Kylian is following in his footsteps,” he concluded.
Real Madrid News
Mourinho considering starting 23-year-old Real Madrid ace against Villarreal – report
After impressing during the international break, Eduardo Camavinga has a major opportunity to establish himself in Real Madrid’s midfield rotation.
Indeed, according to Defensa Central, Jose Mourinho is considering starting the Frenchman against Villarreal, with injuries and doubts over several players limiting his options.
Real Madrid cannot afford to drop points against Villarreal if they want to remain in the title race. However, Mourinho has issues to deal with in the squad, which could lead him to turn to Camavinga for a crucial role.
Camavinga could replace Tchouameni in midfield
The 23-year-old star could line up as the defensive midfielder in the double pivot, with Bernardo Silva or Arda Guler alongside him, and will be tasked with providing balance in midfield.
Real Madrid face Villarreal with several problems in central defence. Ibrahima Konate is expected to be a late call, leading Mourinho to consider moving Aurelien Tchouameni into defence alongside Antonio Rudiger.
Meanwhile, Federico Valverde could also struggle to be ready after the ankle injury he sustained in the derby before the international break.
The Uruguayan has continued to work individually away from the group and might return to group training tomorrow. Even then, his readiness to start remains in question.
That would leave a place open in midfield, with Camavinga in line to fill in.
Camavinga impressed during the international break
Camavinga has started only one match this season, the defeat against Real Betis.
Despite his limited opportunities, Mourinho is keen to bring the Frenchman back into the fold after he impressed for France during the international break.
Zinedine Zidane called the Real Madrid star up for his first France squad, and the midfielder performed well during the break.
That has given Mourinho and Real Madrid reason to be optimistic about using him against Villarreal, with the hope that he can move closer to the level he showed after first arriving at the club.
Therefore, the Villarreal match could represent an important test for Camavinga and a chance for the Frenchman to show that he can provide the balance Real Madrid need in midfield.
