Real Madrid’s defensive frailties prompt Mourinho to rethink summer plans

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has identified the team’s defence as his biggest concern before the new season after their opening friendly matches exposed a series of costly errors.

Mourinho was particularly unhappy with the goal Real Madrid conceded against Ferencvaros, with Spanish outlet Defensa Central reporting that he criticised the way Dean Huijsen and Antonio Rudiger dealt with the move.

The Portuguese manager made his expectations clear to the two defenders after the match, telling them: “I need you to improve your performances. That goal against Ferencvaros is unacceptable.”

Mourinho later reviewed the incident in calmer terms, concluding that the goal had resulted from a lapse in defensive movement which should normally have been avoided.

His concern has increased because Real Madrid have conceded in both of the friendlies they have played as part of their preparations for the new campaign. The problems have not been confined to substitutes or younger players; they have also appeared while players expected to start regularly have been on the pitch.

That has convinced Mourinho that the issue requires urgent attention before competitive football begins.

Real Madrid consider defensive reinforcements

As a result, signing a new centre-back has moved higher up Real Madrid’s priorities should the club decide to enter the transfer market. Current indications suggest Mourinho would prefer to strengthen the back line rather than add another midfielder at this stage.

Huijsen, who is beginning his first season with Real Madrid, appears to need a confidence boost after a start that has fallen below expectations. The defender arrived with considerable hopes surrounding his move to the club and was handed the number four shirt, reflecting the belief that he is one of the outstanding young centre-backs capable of developing into one of the best players in his position.

Rudiger’s situation is different. His difficulties are viewed more as a matter of physical readiness and his ability to return to his best form. The Germany international has extensive experience, but current signs suggest that the strongest period of his career may now be behind him.

Despite those concerns, Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has not ruled out pursuing a top-level centre-back if a suitable opportunity becomes available during the transfer window. A deal could become easier to complete if players leave the squad and create space for a new arrival.

Alessandro Bastoni and Nico Schlotterbeck are among the names being considered as possible options.

Mourinho is understood to recognise that defensive weaknesses will not be tolerated once the official competitions begin. Real Madrid’s decisive challenge during pre-season will therefore be to turn the mistakes exposed in their friendly matches into improvements before the new campaign gets under way.