Kylian Mbappe’s Real Madrid revival starts with Mourinho, says Andrade

Former Portugal international Jorge Andrade has backed José Mourinho to make the most of his return to Real Madrid, describing the appointment as a “golden opportunity” for the experienced coach to restore the club’s winning mentality.

Mourinho returns to the Spanish giants at a crucial moment after a disappointing campaign that saw Madrid finish well behind rivals FC Barcelona in La Liga and fall short in the UEFA Champions League, where Paris Saint-Germain claimed the trophy for a second consecutive season.

The capital club have gone two campaigns without lifting a major honour, increasing pressure on the new era under Mourinho as supporters demand a return to domestic and European dominance.

Andrade believes the Portuguese coach’s experience and personality make him the ideal figure to lead the rebuild, while also identifying Kylian Mbappé as a key player Mourinho must help rediscover his best form.

Mourinho tasked with unlocking Mbappe’s Madrid potential

The former defender believes Mourinho’s biggest challenge will be restoring Mbappe’s confidence and ensuring the French forward replicates the impact he has shown on the international stage with France.

Andrade says the World Cup winner has the ability to become the face of Madrid’s next successful era, but needs the right guidance to reach that level at club level.

“He will surely be excited to get Mbappe to do the same things he is doing with France in the World Cup: winning titles and achieving important goals like the Champions League, which for Real Madrid is the most important trophy,” Andrade said.

Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning Copa del Rey, La Liga and Supercopa de España during his first spell.

Andrade believes the Portuguese tactician’s return comes at a different stage of his career, with greater maturity and a clearer understanding of what is required at the highest level.

“He’s a star” – Andrade hails Mourinho influence

The former Portugal international praised Mourinho’s impact on football and highlighted the inspiration he has provided for coaches emerging after him.

“Jose Mourinho is a star. He’s our mentor as a coach. He’s given a lot of inspiration to those of us starting out as coaches,” Andrade said.

“Everything he does, his composure, how he interacts with the press, with the fans… It was a triumph for Florentino in his campaign to win the elections.”

Andrade believes the opportunity at Madrid could allow Mourinho to implement major changes after a trophyless period and rebuild a squad capable of challenging again.

“Mourinho’s second spell at Real Madrid… It’s a great opportunity. He’s a much more experienced coach now, and he’s going to enjoy it much more than when he first went to Real Madrid,” he added.

“I think he has a golden opportunity to make a lot of changes to the team, since Madrid didn’t win anything last year.”

Madrid rebuild enters decisive phase

Real Madrid are expected to remain active in the transfer market as Mourinho shapes a squad capable of competing for the biggest prizes once again.

With several new arrivals already strengthening the squad, expectations are rising around the Bernabeu that the Portuguese manager can bring stability, discipline and a winning edge back to the team.

For Andrade, Mourinho’s return represents more than a reunion — it is a chance for one of football’s most decorated coaches to write another chapter at one of the world’s biggest clubs.

“Mourinho’s happy like a kid, huh? He’s a star. I wish him all the best.”