Unfair to compare us to Barca: Real Madrid's Mourinho

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho dismissed comparisons with Barcelona's Hansi Flick as unfair ahead of Sunday's La Liga Clasico. Barcelona, under Flick, have won two consecutive La Liga titles and currently lead the league, while Mourinho took over Real Madrid this summer following a two-season trophyless period. However, Mourinho noted that the situation has shifted slightly, with Barcelona suffering their first defeat of the season to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid winning their last four matches.

Currently, Real Madrid sits third in La Liga, six points behind Barcelona after their upcoming match at Camp Nou.

Mourinho stated that the perceptions of his team are misplaced, comparing them to a fully-formed product, when in reality, his tenure at Real Madrid is still in its early stages. He highlighted that Real Madrid has only been together for a month-and-a-half, while Flick has been with Barcelona since 2024. Mourinho emphasized that the team is still in the initial phase of development, learning and adapting as they go.

He also dismissed the impact of form on the Clasico, asserting that previous results have no bearing on the game. Mourinho expressed that the Clasico is a unique event where the football world turns out to watch, and he hopes for a great game where Real Madrid can secure a victory. When discussing Real Madrid's approach against Barcelona's star winger Lamine Yamal, Mourinho reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining his team's strategy, emphasizing respect for the player's quality without changing plans or structures.