Iker Casillas sets aside feud, wishes Mourinho success at Real

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas has spoken publicly for the first time since the club announced Portuguese manager Jose Mourinho as its new head coach, addressing the issue in a DAZN interview while primarily discussing Spain’s national team and the club’s recent coaching change.

He said “Well. Good. The club has decided that Jose has to come to Real Madrid and best of luck,” and added “Let’s hope he does well, which will be good for Madrid.”

The relationship between Casillas and Mourinho during Mourinho’s first spell at Real Madrid was far from smooth. Mourinho dropped Casillas from the starting lineup in favour of Diego Lopez.

Casillas reflected on that period, describing it as “the most difficult period of my career because I was the captain.” He added that constant talks and issues turned a “beautiful marriage … into a complete divorce as time goes by.”

Because of that history, many expected Casillas to be more critical after Mourinho’s return. Casillas had previously expressed reservations about the possibility of Mourinho returning to the Bernabeu.

He also publicly supported Enrique Riquelme’s presidential campaign during Real Madrid’s most recent elections, rather than backing the club’s current direction. This shows his willingness to voice opinions on club governance.

With Mourinho’s appointment now confirmed, Casillas chose to put past differences aside and publicly wish the Portuguese coach success. His comments suggest that his priority remains the club’s success, regardless of who occupies the dugout.