Mourinho says Real Madrid's star trio can gel despite tactical challenges

Ahead of Real Madrid's first league match against Espanyol, coach Jose Mourinho asserted that the club's marquee attackers - Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham - can be integrated without positional conflicts. He contrasted his task with that of former managers Carlo Ancelotti, Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa, who found it difficult to harmonise offense and defence while fielding the trio. Mourinho highlighted the need for a tactical setup that lets all three feel at ease on the field and expressed confidence in a successful season.

He also stressed that the team must defend collectively, stating that every player must help protect the goal. The comments come after Real Madrid's Champions League win in 2024, but the club has not secured a major trophy since Mbappe's arrival.