José Mourinho says Rodri would have been the icing, but midfield options are sufficient | OneFootball

José Mourinho struck a calm tone in his first Real Madrid press conference since returning, held 71 days after his comeback was announced, on the eve of Saturday’s league opener at Espanyol, 21.30 at Cornellà-El Prat.

El Periódico Mediterráneo reports it was his first Madrid press conference in 13 years and 82 days, after the 4-2 win over Osasuna that closed his initial three-year stint.

He said his XI is set, but long-term absentees Ferland Mendy, Rodrygo and Éder Militão will miss out, as will Endrick and Aurélien Tchouaméni with muscle issues.

On Rodrigo Hernández opting for Barcelona, Mourinho said Rodri would have been the icing but underlined midfield depth with Tchouaméni, Camavinga, Bernardo, Valverde and Arda, whom he presently sees more as a No 10.

He accepted Madrid demand results, saying a season without trophies would not be successful. He spoke of adrenaline rather than pressure and backed his players’ ambition, mentality and passion.

He said he never doubted Vinícius Júnior’s renewal, believing the Brazilian wanted to stay, and framed the task with Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé as making all three comfortable on the pitch.

Mourinho insisted all 11 must defend and that commitment is non-negotiable. He also drew a line under the Tchouaméni-Valverde dispute, having observed normality, friendship and cooperation.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo

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