Mourinho handed boost as Real Madrid trio set to be available for start of pre-season after WC exit | OneFootball

Real Madrid may have seen several of their players leave the World Cup earlier than expected, but the situation could ultimately work in Jose Mourinho’s favour.

In fact, according to AS, the eliminations of Federico Valverde, Arda Guler and Antonio Rudiger are being viewed positively within the club because they will allow the trio to return in time for the crucial opening phase of preseason preparations.

The Jose Mourinho Real Madrid project officially gets underway on July 13, when players report back to Valdebebas for medical examinations ahead of the first training session. 

Following two consecutive seasons without silverware, the Portuguese coach is determined to make an immediate impact, with pre-season expected to play a decisive role.

Interestingly, Mourinho had already hinted at this scenario a few weeks ago when he jokingly admitted that he hoped some of his players would suffer early World Cup exits so they could join him sooner.

That wish has partially become reality.

Three Real Madrid players to boost Mourinho’s pre-season

Arda Guler’s World Cup campaign is over. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

Federico Valverde World Cup exit, combined with the departures of Arda Guler and Antonio Rudiger, means Mourinho will have access to important members of his squad much earlier than initially anticipated.

According to the outlet, Guler and Valverde are expected to rejoin the squad during the early stages of the second week of pre-season, between July 20 and July 22, while Rudiger’s return is projected to come slightly later.

The Real Madrid pre-season has taken on increased importance this year due to the club’s recent struggles. 

Hence, Mourinho will be eager to use every available session to implement his ideas and build cohesion ahead of a demanding campaign.

Mourinho still waiting on many World Cup stars

Real Madrid still have several internationals active at the World Cup. (Photo by Alex Grimm/Getty Images)

While the early returns provide one advantage, Mourinho is still expected to begin pre-season without a large number of key players.

Jude Bellingham remains involved with England, while Vinicius Jr. and Endrick continue their World Cup journey with Brazil.

France still have Kylian Mbappe, Ibrahima Konate and Aurelien Tchouameni competing in the tournament, while Marc Cucurella remains with Spain.

Furthermore, Brahim Diaz is representing Morocco, Bernardo Silva is still active with Portugal, and Thibaut Courtois continues with Belgium.

That means Mourinho will have to go through the opening weeks of pre-season without several of the players expected to define Real Madrid’s season.