Mourinho already knows the type of players he wants at Real Madrid as he targets 5-6 signings – report | OneFootball

Although he cannot officially be announced as manager and take control of the team until a new Real Madrid president is elected, Jose Mourinho is all set to return to the Santiago Bernabeu.

And, with his three-year contract with the club already signed, the Portuguese coach has spent recent weeks carrying out an in-depth assessment of the team’s current situation.

Mourinho wants a specific kind of player at Real Madrid

Indeed, according to AS, Mourinho has informed the Real Madrid hierarchy that he is not looking for superstar signings. Instead, he wants players who are hungry for success and willing to fight for every result.

Mourinho has carefully analysed the factors that have contributed to Real Madrid finishing two consecutive seasons without winning a major title.

His evaluation has included reviewing key matches from the latter stages of last season, as well as gathering information about events that took place inside the dressing room.

Return imminent. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

As a result, he has developed a clear vision not only of the positions that need strengthening, but also of the type of players he wants at the club.

Commitment, work rate, and determination are qualities the 63-year-old considers essential. He is seeking footballers who are eager to run, compete, and sacrifice for the team, while also possessing strong character and a collective mentality rather than individual ego.

Positions Mourinho wants to strengthen

Before agreeing to return, Mourinho requested a significant role in defining the profile of incoming players and identifying the areas of the squad that require reinforcement.

While he may not have the final say on specific names, he wants his influence to be felt in the construction of the squad. He has already identified the positions he believes should be strengthened.

Mourinho has already outlined his recruitment plans. (Photo by Alex Broadway/Getty Images)

While he intends to use pre-season to evaluate the current squad in person and understand the dynamics within the group, his initial plan includes the recruitment of one or two central defenders, a right-back, a left-back, and two midfielders.

The midfield additions would have distinct roles. One would be a defensive midfielder capable of providing balance and protection in front of the back line. The other would be a creative playmaker.

In central defence, the incoming Real Madrid boss is looking for an experienced and authoritative player who can become a regular starter alongside Antonio Rudiger.

At full-back, the priority is currently on the right side, where Mourinho wants a player capable of competing directly with Trent Alexander-Arnold. A left-back could also become a priority if Fran Garcia leaves the club.