Mourinho Impressed by Real Madrid’s Collective Performance

Real Madrid have wrapped up their pre-season campaign with a convincing 3-0 victory over Schalke, and Jose Mourinho has been impressed by the team's growing unity and understanding.

Speaking to reporters after the match, Mourinho highlighted the enthusiasm shown by his players ahead of the new season. According to the experienced coach, that excitement has been visible not only on the pitch but also through several small yet significant details.

Some players returned from their holidays earlier than scheduled, while those who returned on the final day of their break arrived in excellent individual condition. For Mourinho, those actions reflect the mentality developing within the squad.

“They have shown that they are excited. You can see it in small but important details. Some players returned before they were expected to, and those who came back on the final day were individually very well prepared,” Mourinho said.

He was particularly pleased with the way Real played collectively against Schalke, pointing to the understanding between the players and their willingness to work for one another.

“We played as a team. There was a good understanding and a collective effort. The team is now really starting to look like a team,” he added.

Real Madrid have endured two consecutive trophyless seasons, leaving Mourinho with the challenge of restoring the club to the top. His side have made an encouraging start during pre-season, winning five of their six matches and drawing only against Fiorentina.

However, Mourinho knows that pre-season results mean little once competitive football begins. Real's real test will come on Sunday when they open their La Liga campaign against Espanyol.

The Portuguese coach also stressed that the players' enthusiasm is more important than the excitement surrounding the club from fans or officials.

“We are all excited. The most important thing is that the players are excited. If the fans were excited, I would be excited, and if the president were excited, I would be excited. But if the players weren't excited, then we would have a problem.”

After ending pre-season on a positive note, Real Madrid will now look to carry their momentum and growing team spirit into the competitive season. The 3-0 victory over Schalke has provided Mourinho's side with a promising final step before the real battle begins.