Intensity drives Mourinho Real Madrid comeback at Valdebebas

Intensity defines the tone of Jose Mourinho’s return to the Merengue as the Portuguese manager arrives at Real Madrid after a 13‑year hiatus, with the club seeking a fresh start following a trophyless 2025‑26 season. Preseason training kicked off on 13 July at Valdebebas, underscoring his demand for relentless work.

The early preseason sessions at Valdebebas highlight his urgency to shape the squad, with most first‑team players still absent, reinforcing the need for intense preparation.

Diario AS highlighted that one word characterises the early sessions at Valdebebas: intensity. The Spanish daily noted the relentless pace set by Mourinho.

Mourinho has imposed demanding sessions, refusing any relaxation. Senior players and youngsters combine physical work, ball work and gym strength exercises despite the high heat, and no player is allowed to ease off.

The second training session, held on Tuesday, featured the return of hypoxia masks. The masks are a favourite tool of fitness coach Antonio Pintus and are used to assess players after their recent vacation.

Players have responded positively, eager to impress the new coach. They have embraced the demanding regime as they look toward the upcoming season.

The club hopes the hard work in preseason will help Real Madrid achieve the objectives set for the new project. The intensive preparation aims to deliver results next season, revealing a clear commitment to intensity as the foundation for future success.