Mourinho: “Only Real Madrid can win this way”

José Mourinho believes Real Madrid have a rare ability to turn matches around in their closing stages. After the 3-2 victory over AEK Athens, the coach summed up that belief: “Only Real Madrid can win this way… and the coaches envy me!”

Real Madrid came back before securing the win in the final minutes. Mourinho described that scenario as a reflection of his team’s determination to fight until the final whistle, and voiced his confidence in his players at the press conference.

To explain such finishes, he also stressed the character of his side. He said: “These matches that are decided in the final minutes… we are the only ones who can win them this way. We… have what it takes to do it.” He also acknowledged AEK Athens’ quality, praising the team’s organisation, direct play, intensity and physical strength. In his view, the Greek side produced an outstanding performance and helped prevent Real Madrid from showing their best.

Mourinho also rejected the idea that Vinícius Júnior had forced Diomande to change positions. He said Diomande had come to Real Madrid to play on both sides, and that it made no difference to him which flank he played on. Mourinho rated Vinícius’ performance as acceptable and explained that his substitution decisions also took into account the next match against Valencia, scheduled for Saturday. Asked how he should handle the player, he joked: “80% with the right hand and 20% with the left.”

The coach also spoke about Jude Bellingham, whom he considers an exceptional player with a range of qualities rarely found in a midfielder. He also praised the depth of his squad: “Many coaches look at my team’s bench with positive envy.” He said the many options available to him could benefit the group, provided players put the team ahead of personal interests.

For the match against Valencia, Mourinho said he intended to make many changes because of the run of fixtures and the short gap between games. Dean Huijsen, Konaté, Tchouaméni and Arda Güler were among the players who could benefit.