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Mourinho Returns for Madrid Derby After Decade
20 Sep
Summary
- José Mourinho returns to manage Real Madrid in a derby after 4,894 days.
- Both Real Madrid and Atlético need points to close gap on Barcelona.
- Three defenders will make their derby debuts for Real Madrid.
After nearly 13 years, José Mourinho is back to manage Real Madrid in a league derby against Atlético, marking his return after 4,894 days. His previous derby as Real Madrid manager was on April 27, 2013, a match Real Madrid won 2-1. Mourinho has a strong record against Atlético, with only one loss in a cup final where he was sent off.
Both Real Madrid and Atlético desperately require three points to avoid falling further behind league leaders Barcelona. Mourinho faces tactical decisions, particularly on the right flank, with Arda Güler and Yan Diomande vying for a starting spot. Diomande has shown strong form, contributing goals and assists.
In midfield, Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni are expected to form a partnership to control the game's tempo and disrupt Atlético's play. Bernardo Silva is a potential option for the second half to bolster possession.
Real Madrid's defense will feature Thibaut Courtois in goal, supported by three players making their derby debuts: Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konaté, and Marc Cucurella. The attacking trio of Vinícius, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappé is set to lead the line.
