Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has clarified his stance on strengthening the team during the upcoming winter transfer window, expressing satisfaction with his current group of players and emphasizing a preference for developing his squad rather than demanding new signings.
The Portuguese coach’s remarks came during the pre-match press conference ahead of the clash against Sevilla in the ninth round of La Liga, amid questions regarding the Merengues’ needs for the second half of the season.
Mourinho stated: “I’m not asking to sign new players, I am happy,” in a message reflecting his confidence in the options at his disposal, following a summer transfer window that saw the club reinforce multiple positions.
He added: “My job is to help them improve, and I’m not the type of manager who keeps demanding new players,” stressing that the group’s progression also requires time and peace of mind to work, both individually and collectively.
Mourinho continued: “I prefer a small squad, which means the arrival of a new player would require someone else to leave,” factoring squad balance into his considerations before contemplating any moves in January.
Nevertheless, Mourinho did not completely close the door to all possibilities, expressing willingness to discuss and evaluate any proposals put forward by the board regarding transfers, while insisting that the initiative to request one or two additions will not come from him.
Real Madrid bolstered their defense last June by signing Marc Cucurella until the summer of 2032 and Ibrahima Konaté until 2030, as part of the moves accompanying the start of the new era under the Portuguese manager. Mourinho’s comments coincided with confirmation of Éder Militão’s return to the squad for the Sevilla match, while he also praised Arda Güler’s potential and capacity for growth at 21 years of age.
