Privileges have limits: Jose Mourinho sets strict new standards at Real Madrid

Privileges have limits: Jose Mourinho sets strict new standards at Real Madrid Jose Mourinho is wasting little time in putting his stamp on Real Madrid. In fact, according to a detailed report from MARCA , the Portuguese manager has spent his first weeks at Valdebebas working on much more than tactics and team selection.  Mourinho reportedly wants to change certain habits within the squad and make sure the problems that affected Real Madrid last season are not allowed to resurface. With the 2026/27 campaign approaching, Mourinho’s message is clear: every player must understand how the team works, what is expected of them and where their responsibilities begin and end. The Real Madrid manager has already developed a reputation for his attention to detail, and the players are beginning to experience that first-hand. As explained by MARCA, Mourinho is heavily involved in every training exercise, closely watching the smallest gestures and quick to correct anything that does not meet his standards.  Mourinho has set certain standards that the dressing room will have to follow. (Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images) Simply put, nothing is supposed to be left to chance. Mourinho is the first to arrive at Real Madrid training One of the clearest examples of Mourinho’s approach is his own routine. The Real Madrid boss is always the first person to arrive for training at Valdebebas, and the idea behind this is not only to set an example. Rather, Mourinho also wants to observe his players from the moment they arrive. He pays attention to who comes in early, who arrives late, who looks focused and who appears tired or disconnected, as these details offer an early picture of the group’s physical and mental state before training has even started. After taking charge more than a month ago, the manager has not yet had the chance to work extensively with his full squad.  Jose Mourinho has already asserted his authority. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images) Even so, the Real Madrid manager has held meetings with the captains and spoken with almost every player who has visited his office.  Mourinho wants clear roles and fewer privileges Furthermore, Mourinho’s work at Valdebebas is also about making sure there is no confusion inside the squad. With Real Madrid strengthened by new arrivals and competition for places increasing, the manager wants everyone to understand their role from the beginning of the season. That could be particularly important after a campaign in which the team struggled with certain habits and issues that Mourinho is now trying to remove. The Portuguese wants to set clear limits within the dressing room so that players will understand that privileges are not unlimited and the relationship between manager and squad requires responsibility from both sides.