Sport · Singapore Bureau
Mourinho downplays Champions League pressure in Real Madrid return
Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has dismissed suggestions he faces heightened expectations to deliver European glory during his second spell at the Spanish club. The Portuguese tactician made the comments ahead of Tuesday's Champions League clash against Inter Milan at the Santiago Bernabeu.
LSN Singapore ·
Mourinho indicated he was approaching his return to Real Madrid with a measured perspective, refusing to be drawn into discussions about the weight of Champions League expectations that often accompany appointments at the Bernabeu.
The manager's comments come as Real Madrid prepare to face Inter Milan, the defending Serie A champions, in their opening European fixture of the campaign. Tuesday's match at home represents an early test of the club's continental ambitions.
Mourinho's previous stint at Real Madrid, from 2010 to 2013, delivered significant silverware including La Liga titles and Copa del Rey victories. His record in European competition during that period was respectable, though Champions League success eluded him.
The 61-year-old's insistence that he is not feeling added pressure to win Europe's premier club competition suggests a tactical approach focused on managing expectations while building team cohesion in what marks his first competitive appearance back at the club.
Real Madrid are among the favourites for this season's Champions League, but Mourinho appears intent on shifting focus toward the squad's immediate challenge against the Italian champions rather than long-term continental objectives.