Former Real Madrid star lauds Mourinho after positive start: ‘There’s been a shift in mindset’

Former Real Madrid star lauds Mourinho after positive start: ‘There’s been a shift in mindset’ If Real Madrid’s opening games under Jose Mourinho are anything to go by, the team looks far more threatening this time around than they have in recent years. Having made several top-tier signings to reinforce the squad this summer, Los Blancos have also shaken up the dressing room with their managerial appointment. Mourinho, in fact, was handed full control of Real Madrid’s transfer operations and decisions and has looked to completely transform the team’s results. So far, the men in white have three wins in as many games and are on a powerful winning streak. Yet, it is important to note that two of their three games so far have come against recently promoted sides. Alvaro Benito’s verdict Speaking to the media in a recent interview, former Real Madrid player and manager Alvaro Benito gave his opinion on the team’s start to the new season and how they have fared under Jose Mourinho. “The positive thing is that he hasn’t had to take a hard line,” he began, outlining how Real Madrid have largely been positive. Back with a bang. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images) Elaborating on what has changed under the new manager’s command, Benito stressed that the change in mentality was key. “It seems there’s been a shift in mindset. People are convinced that something needs to change in that area.” He did, however, make it clear that he saw areas where there can still be significant improvement in the team’s performance. “If you defend better, win more balls, and attack better—especially with the talents of players like Bellingham, Vinicius, Diomande, and Mbappé—it’s a no-brainer.” Benito then went on to speak on why it makes sense for Real Madrid to press higher and win balls back with more conviction. “Last year we pointed out that Madrid was the team in the five major leagues that scored the most goals on the counter.” “How could you not strive to steal the ball more if you’re the team that scores the most goals off steals,” he added. Still a long way to go. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images) Towards the end of his interaction, Benito stayed cautious on making any predictions for Real Madrid’s season ahead and emphasised that they have not faced any tough competition yet. “We will see as the games go by, when the Champions League starts, when you face tougher opponents, but obviously this is the way forward. It doesn’t matter who the opponent is.” He then concluded his point by explaining the difference he saw between the Real Madrid of last season and this season, saying, “Last year, you could see that Real Madrid had a certain lack of effort when they didn’t have the ball and thought that chances and goals would come naturally through their talent.” “This year, I’m seeing the players work with the idea of defending while pushing forward, which I think is what Real Madrid needs to do,” he added. Source:  Mundo Deportivo