Jose Mourinho Warns Real Madrid About Lack of Control Ahead of Atletico Derby

Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has acknowledged that his team needs to improve its ability to control matches as they prepare to face Atletico Madrid in Sunday’s La Liga derby.

Madrid have made an attacking start to the season, but Mourinho described his side as “frenetic” and admitted that they have struggled to close out matches despite creating enough chances to secure comfortable victories.

Real Madrid Chasing Barcelona

Real Madrid have won five of their first six league matches, with their only defeat coming in the other game. They sit three points behind unbeaten defending champions Barcelona, while Atletico Madrid occupy third place.

Madrid have also needed late goals to collect important points. Substitute striker Carlos Espi scored late winners against both Espanyol and Elche, allowing Mourinho’s side to remain close to Barcelona.

“The problem seems obvious to me,” Mourinho said. He explained that Madrid have had matches that appeared to be under control but became difficult because the team failed to take its chances.

According to the coach, wasting several opportunities can quickly turn a comfortable situation into one where his side loses control of the game.

Mourinho Wants More Control

Mourinho said his concerns about defensive control extend beyond the Atletico derby and apply to every match.

“I like my team to score goals… but I also like controlling matches,” the Portuguese coach said.

He added that the issue was not simply the number of goals conceded, but the amount of control Madrid allow their opponents to regain.

Bernardo Silva is expected to return to the starting lineup after being rested during Tuesday’s victory over Elche. His inclusion could provide Madrid with greater control in midfield.

However, Mourinho’s squad remains heavily focused on attacking football. Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham form a high-profile attacking trio that naturally encourages a fast-paced style of play.

Vinicius Under Pressure

Vinicius Junior could face a hostile reception from Atletico supporters during the derby. The Brazilian forward has also experienced criticism from sections of Madrid’s own fanbase after a difficult start in front of goal.

He missed three strong chances during the narrow win over Elche and has scored only once this season.

Vinicius posted on Instagram after the match that he expected the goals to return and acknowledged that he could not continue missing so many opportunities.

Mourinho said he is waiting for the Vinicius capable of deciding matches, referring to the forward’s previous performances during Madrid’s Champions League successes.

Mbappe, meanwhile, has been in much stronger scoring form, with eight goals across all competitions. Mourinho described the French forward as “not normal” as he continues to make an impact for Madrid.

Ceuta Shirt Controversy Adds Tension

Another talking point ahead of the derby involves Vinicius, Mbappe and Ibrahima Konate.

The three players partially covered a message on a Real Madrid shirt supporting the people of Ceuta. The shirt carried the message “we are all Ceutans” in reference to the Spanish territory in North Africa and the migration crisis affecting the region.

La Liga president Javier Tebas criticised the players on Wednesday for not displaying the message fully before Madrid’s match against Elche.

Mbappe later explained that rolling up the shirt was intended as a gesture of support for migrants who had died while attempting to cross the border, while also expressing support for the people of Ceuta.

The controversy could add to the attention surrounding Vinicius when Madrid travel to Atletico’s Metropolitano Stadium.

Mbappe Leads Madrid’s Attack

Mbappe’s scoring record has also given Madrid an important attacking outlet as the club attempts to keep pace with Barcelona.

Since joining Real Madrid in 2024, Mbappe has helped strengthen the club’s attacking options, although Madrid have yet to win a major trophy during his time at the club.

Barcelona have won La Liga in each of the last two seasons, meaning Madrid will be looking to avoid dropping points in important fixtures such as the derby.

The match could also provide Mbappe with another opportunity to strengthen his Ballon d’Or campaign.

Mourinho and Simeone Renew Rivalry

Sunday’s derby will also renew the managerial rivalry between Mourinho and Atletico coach Diego Simeone.

The two coaches previously faced each other four times during Mourinho’s first spell in charge of Real Madrid. Mourinho won three of those encounters, while Simeone’s only victory came in the 2013 Copa del Rey final.

Mourinho will now hope his players can maintain their concentration if they take the lead against Atletico and avoid allowing their opponents back into the match.