Mourinho's Real Madrid debut
Jose Mourinho returns to La Liga on Saturday, 4,830 days after his last match in charge (6) (13). First opponent: Manolo Gonzalez's Espanyol at the RCD Stadium (8). The gap is real, not nostalgia. Mourinho last managed Madrid in a 4–2 win over Osasuna (3).
Mourinho kept it honest ahead of the season. "There are many ways to look at this. We can grow a lot at many levels, but results are what count. We have three competitions plus one small one. Finishing without trophies at Real Madrid is not a successful season," he said (4).
The RCD Stadium carries weight
This is the ground where Mourinho lost his last Spanish league title as Madrid coach (13). Your team's recent record against Espanyol gives reason for confidence heading in (11).
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Who's out and who's in
Endrick is injured and misses the opener (4). Éder Militão, Rodrygo, Asencio, Mendy and Tchouaméni are also listed as doubts or absent (4). The squad that travels reflects a thin start to the season. New arrivals Cucurella, Diomande, Dumfries, Bernardo Silva and Konaté are in the picture (4) (6).
Castilla adding two prospects
Sergio Martínez, a 19-year-old midfielder from Racing, will join Real Madrid Castilla and train with the first team at times (1). Rayan Zinebi is another new talent expected for Castilla (7). Atalanta have enquired about Castilla midfielder Jorge Cestero, though he is not a priority for them (12).
Zubimendi not for sale
Martín Zubimendi has been linked with Madrid for midfield. His club report he is not for sale (10). The market is not closed yet, with movements still possible before the summer window ends (5).
Fan reactions
The subreddit is less about Saturday and more about the hypothetical: which Real Madrid player from the last 15 years would you bring back in their prime for one season. Fans are debating fit over reputation, with several arguing the best choice is not necessarily the greatest name. A separate thread is on the practical side, with fans asking what exactly the Platinum Madridista subscription includes in the shirt package. The prime-player debate is the livelier one this week: Which Real Madrid player would you bring back
