Ex-Real Madrid star outlines Mourinho’s big challenge at club: ‘Getting everyone to understand that..’ | OneFootball

Real Madrid’s performances in La Liga have been encouraging so far, but it is clear that there is still a long way to go.

Real Madrid’s attack has fared well this season, and unsurprisingly so given the individual quality on display.

What has been lacking, however, is a collective defensive effort – something Jose Mourinho is particular about in his teams.

Over the past two seasons, the forward department’s lack of contribution to the pressing system has been a constant hurdle for managers at Real Madrid.

While former coaches could not demand it of the players, there is hope that a figure like Mourinho can get the job done.

Mourinho has made a positive start to life at Real Madrid. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Former Real Madrid defender speaks

Former Spain defender and Real Madrid player Rafael Alkorta spoke to the media in a recent interview where he was asked about the team’s performances under Jose Mourinho and their start to the new season.

He began by highlighting the importance of a collective defensive effort and how it is difficult to engrain that mentality in a team that has not historically defended collectively.

“Real Madrid has won the Champions League without pressing high up the field, but it has done so by meeting certain minimum standards—standards where the players have to know exactly what they need to do at all times,” he said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.

“It seems to me that the hardest part for Mourinho will be this: getting everyone to understand that they have to give their all in defence,” he added, naming it to be Mourinho’s biggest challenge as the manager of Los Blancos.

Three wins in three games for Jose. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

The need for balance

The former Spanish centre-back then spoke out on Real Madrid’s attack and how they have a star-studded side that still requires understanding and willingness to contribute defensively.

“In offence, they’re all generous, but I think that when you put together a team, it’s because there has to be a balance, and a good team has to have a good balance.”

Elaborating on how it is Mourinho’s role to ensure the forwards contribute to the press, Alkorta said,

“The players can only do things the way the coach asks them to, and this coach is very clear about that, but the others were too.”