Jose Mourinho handpicks Real Madrid academy talents for crucial pre-season test – report | OneFootball

Real Madrid pre-season officially gets underway today, but behind the scenes, Jose Mourinho has already been laying the foundations for what he hopes will be a successful new chapter at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

According to MARCA, the Portuguese manager has spent the past few weeks analysing detailed reports on his squad while also identifying the academy players he wants to evaluate personally during the opening weeks of training.

With several senior players still unavailable following their involvement in the FIFA World Cup, Mourinho will begin work with a squad made up of first-team regulars and some of the club’s most highly-rated youngsters. 

As a result, the opening phase of Real Madrid pre-season training represents a major opportunity for the club’s emerging talents to prove they belong at the highest level.

Mourinho identifies academy star for first-team assessment

Mourinho has stated working behind the scenes. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

The latest Real Madrid news suggests Mourinho has taken a hands-on approach before even stepping onto the training pitch. 

Rather than relying solely on recommendations from the academy staff, the Real Madrid manager has personally reviewed reports on several youth prospects before deciding which players he wants to monitor closely.

For those academy graduates, this opportunity will be their first real chance to impress Mourinho directly and compete for a place in his long-term plans.

The timing also works in their favour, as several Real Madrid players are still completing their mandatory post-World Cup break and will return gradually over the coming weeks after receiving around three weeks of physical and mental recovery. 

Mourinho will handpick the academy stars for pre-season preparations. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Until then, Mourinho will have valuable time to assess the younger members of the squad in a competitive training environment.

Mourinho sets new standards

While squad evaluation is a major focus, Mourinho has informed the staff and players that the new campaign must be approached as a mission rather than simply another season.

Changing the daily culture appears to be one of Mourinho’s first priorities. His objective is not only to compete for trophies but also to establish higher standards in training, preparation and commitment throughout the squad.

That mentality is expected to influence every aspect of Real Madrid’s pre-season, with every training session carrying significant importance regardless of whether the participants are experienced internationals or academy prospects hoping to make an impression.