LaLiga: Simeone admits Barcelona were better after Atletico Madrid defeat

José Mourinho, manager of Real Madrid, has been crowned La Liga's Manager of the Month for October. This victory came after a streak of unbeaten results in the Spanish top flight. The Portuguese tactician's achievement is notable as it marked the first time he had won this individual honor this season.

Mourinho's most significant accomplishment during the month was undoubtedly his team's victory over Barcelona in the El Clásico. The match took place at the Spotify Camp Nou on October 25, and resulted in a 2-1 win for Real Madrid. Kylian Mbappé was the decisive player for Los Blancos, scoring twice in the 41st and 87th minutes. Barcelona's only response came from Raphinha, who equalized in the 61st minute.

The competition for October's managerial award was highly contested, as Diego Simeone, manager of Atlético Madrid, also had an impressive month. The Argentine tactician guided his team to three consecutive victories, with wins over Alavés (2-1), Espanyol (1-0), and Deportivo La Coruña (1-0). Similarly, Pellegrino Matarazzo, coach of Real Sociedad, impressed with three league victories, including a 3-2 win against Deportivo La Coruña, a 5-2 triumph over Málaga, and a narrow 2-1 victory over Levante.

Despite the strong performances of his fellow nominees, Mourinho's victory was secured due to Real Madrid's superior results and their memorable win against Barcelona.

Real Madrid's strong momentum continued throughout October with further victories over Villarreal and Sevilla. The team's 1-0 win over Villarreal, followed by a dominant 4-1 performance against Sevilla, helped strengthen their lead at the top of the La Liga standings. Mourinho's Manager of the Month award therefore represents recognition for a successful month where Real Madrid combined consistent league performances with a statement victory over their biggest domestic rivals.