José Mourinho has urged Real Madrid supporters to direct their passion towards the team rather than giving him a special reception when he returns to the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Portuguese coach is preparing for the first home match of his second spell in charge of Madrid, with Real Sociedad visiting the Bernabéu on Wednesday.
Mourinho made it clear that he does not want the occasion to become about him.
“I don't want the Bernabéu to welcome me in any particular way.”
“I want them to welcome the team with the passion it has.”
The Real Madrid manager also acknowledged that the atmosphere around the club became difficult towards the end of last season and wants the supporters to reconnect with the team.
Mourinho Wants the Bernabéu Behind the Team
Mourinho believes the most important thing is for the players to feel the Bernabéu's support.
Real Madrid began their La Liga campaign with a dramatic 2–1 victory over Espanyol, with Carlos Espí scoring a late winner to secure three points in Mourinho's first competitive match back at the club.
Now, the Portuguese manager wants his players to carry that determination into their first home fixture.
“I hope the fans can look at the team and recognize this kind of mentality,” Mourinho said, stressing the importance of hunger, resilience and commitment from his players.
His message is clear... the spotlight should be on Real Madrid rather than on his return.
Mourinho Declares Real Madrid Squad Closed
Mourinho also addressed the club's transfer plans and revealed that, from his perspective, Real Madrid's squad is complete.
“The squad is CLOSED for me… but the transfer window is still open.”
The manager explained that he is satisfied with the players available to him and has no desire to see anyone leave before the transfer window shuts.
“I am very happy with the players I have. I don't want players to leave.”
However, Mourinho admitted that unexpected situations could still arise before the window closes.
A player could request a transfer, or the club could receive an offer that changes the situation.
For now, though, Mourinho does not expect any more additions.
“In my mind, the squad is closed.”
Real Madrid have already made significant changes to their squad this summer, including the arrivals of Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konaté, Yan Diomande and Carlos Espí.
Mourinho Focused on Building a United Madrid
With the transfer window still open, Mourinho's priority appears to be building cohesion within the group rather than adding more players.
He wants every player to understand their importance to the squad and believes Real Madrid have enough quality to handle injuries and suspensions without weakening significantly.
The next test comes at the Bernabéu against Real Sociedad, where Mourinho will experience his first home match since returning to Madrid.
And rather than asking for a personal welcome, he has one request for the supporters...
... Back the team.