Mourinho identifies four problem positions Real Madrid must fix this summer | OneFootball

After weeks of speculation surrounding the future of the Real Madrid bench, it now appears increasingly likely that Jose Mourinho is preparing for a sensational return to Real Madrid.

Now, according to reports from AS, the Portuguese tactician has already started laying the foundations for his next project at the Santiago Bernabeu. 

Even though the agreement is yet to be officially signed due to the ongoing presidential elections involving Florentino Perez, Mourinho has made it very clear where he believes improvements are needed.

The manager is said to have spent time analysing Real Madrid’s recent performances in La Liga, studying both the strengths and weaknesses of the current squad before presenting his initial ideas to the club hierarchy.

What are Mourinho’s demands?

The early priority for Mourinho appears to be rebuilding the spine of the team. 

Mourinho has identified Real Madrid’s weaknesses. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

Reports indicate that the Portuguese coach wants one or even two new centre-backs added to the squad, while a dependable right-back is also viewed as an urgent requirement.

A new left-back could arrive later depending on departures and finances, but Mourinho’s biggest concerns revolve around balance in midfield and defensive stability.

The report claims that the veteran manager wants a defensive midfielder capable of competing with and covering for Aurelien Tchouameni. 

In addition, he is also pushing for a more creative presence in midfield, someone capable of controlling matches and improving the team’s attacking rhythm.

Interestingly, Mourinho has not submitted specific names yet, but his focus has been on identifying the exact profiles he believes are missing from the current setup.

Mourinho’s announcement has been delayed. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)

Within Real Madrid, there is already an acceptance that changes are necessary after an inconsistent campaign. 

However, the club understands that new arrivals will likely depend on departures first, especially with squad balance and wages becoming increasingly important.

Mourinho seems ready for Real Madrid

What stands out most from Mourinho’s early planning is how clearly he has identified the team’s weaknesses. 

Real Madrid still possess enormous quality across the squad, but it was evident from the 2025/26 season that the side lacks defensive control and midfield structure.

Mourinho has always built his best teams around defensive organisation and physical intensity, meaning his requests suggest he wants to restore those qualities immediately if he returns to Madrid.