Real Madrid News
Jose Mourinho wants Real Madrid to sign a ‘Joselu-type’ traditional striker
Jose Mourinho continues to shape his Real Madrid project while keeping one eye on the World Cup.
With several important additions still pending, the Portuguese manager has made it clear that his priorities remain strengthening the defence and midfield.
However, according to AS, he has not ruled out adding a classic centre-forward to provide an alternative option in attack.
Looking for another Joselu
The new Real Madrid coach would ideally like a player capable of fulfilling the role Joselu performed during the 2023-24 campaign under Carlo Ancelotti.
Although not a regular starter, Joselu contributed 18 goals and three assists and became a crucial weapon from the bench.
His most memorable contribution came in the Champions League semi-final second leg against Bayern Munich, where he scored twice in nine minutes to send Madrid into the final and help the club lift its 15th European Cup.
That type of impact is exactly what Mourinho wants available when Plan A fails.
Gonzalo’s exit on hold
As things stand, the pursuit of a traditional No. 9 is not considered urgent a top priority. For that reason, Mourinho has halted any plans regarding Gonzalo Garcia’s departure.
The academy graduate has attracted interest from Real Betis, but the Portuguese coach wants to assess him properly during pre-season before making a final decision.
Gonzalo offers versatility, being capable of playing on the wing as well as through the middle. He attacks spaces intelligently, is strong in the air and has even earned recognition from Spain coach Luis de la Fuente.
Endrick’s role remains secure
The possible arrival of a pure striker would not affect Endrick’s place in the squad. The Brazilian remains firmly in Mourinho’s plans, especially because of his ability to play both centrally and on the right flank.
Even before Mourinho’s arrival, the club had informed Endrick that he would be reintegrated into the first-team setup following his successful spell at Lyon.
Defensive and midfield reinforcements remain the priority
However, Mourinho’s immediate focus is on signing another centre-back and a creative, hard-working midfielder capable of covering ground.
Among the names under consideration are Ruben Dias and Alessandro Bastoni for defence, while Mateus Fernandes and Enzo Fernandez are being monitored to strengthen the middle of the park.
Despite those priorities, the Real Madrid boss would also like to have a penalty-box striker in the mould of Joselu, someone who can provide a different solution when matches become complicated.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
