Real Madrid icon pinpoints Jose Mourinho’s biggest objective: ‘They need to…’

Real Madrid icon pinpoints Jose Mourinho’s biggest objective: ‘They need to…’ Former Real Madrid winger Steve McManaman believes Jose Mourinho has one clear priority in his first season back at the Santiago Bernabeu: take La Liga back from Barcelona. The 2026/27 La Liga season is expected to bring another fierce battle between Spain’s two biggest clubs, with both Real Madrid and Barcelona strengthening their squads ahead of the new campaign. Real Madrid have invested heavily in recent months, particularly in defence, while also bringing Mourinho back to the club in an attempt to change the direction of a team that has gone two seasons without a major trophy. Barcelona, meanwhile, have continued to build under Hansi Flick and have added Rodri to their squad, giving them another major name in midfield. McManaman on the new-age battle Speaking about the upcoming Real Madrid vs Barcelona La Liga title race, McManaman believes Mourinho knows exactly what will define the success of his first season. “They have reinvested in this market, bringing in three defenders. They’ve spent on young players and brought José Mourinho back.  Real Madrid have high hopes for Jose Mourinho. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website) “Now, they need to beat Barcelona following the dominance Barcelona have shown.  “And it’s going to be difficult because Barcelona have also invested well and signed Rodri, an incredible player, so La Liga this season is going to be incredible,” he explained. Real Madrid have invested heavily Real Madrid’s decision to bring Mourinho back was followed by significant investment in the squad. The club has strengthened their defensive options and continued to add young talent, giving the Portuguese manager a deeper group to work with as he prepares for his first season back in charge. However, according to McManaman, spending money and improving the squad will mean little if Real Madrid fail to stop Barcelona’s recent domestic dominance. Steve McManaman has warned Real Madrid and Mourinho. (Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images) That is the standard Mourinho will be judged against. For McManaman, the challenge facing Mourinho is therefore straightforward, even if achieving it will be anything but. “They need to win the league; I don’t necessarily think they have to win the Champions League, but they do need to finish above Barcelona.  “Real Madrid cannot go three years without winning anything.  “So Jose has to get to work and he has to succeed straight away – that’s why they’ve brought him in and that’s what he’ll have to do,” he concluded. Source: AS