Jude Bellingham excited to work with Jose Mourinho as Real Madrid return to training

Jude Bellingham says working with Jose Mourinho is “a dream” after returning to Real Madrid training and expressing his confidence ahead of the new season.

The England midfielder rejoined his club on Wednesday following a period of rest after helping England finish third at the 2026 World Cup. His return provided a boost for Real Madrid as preparations continued for the campaign ahead.

“I’m very happy to be back with my team-mates,” Bellingham told the Real Madrid website.

The 23-year-old also spoke enthusiastically about the opportunity to work under Mourinho, who is beginning his time in charge of the Spanish club.

“It’s a dream for me to work with Jose Mourinho, and I’m very excited about it,” said Bellingham.

Real Madrid have already played three pre-season matches, with one fixture still to come before the competitive season begins. Bellingham said the intensity of the training programme had not diminished his enthusiasm for the opening weeks of the campaign.

“We run a lot, and the weather is very hot, but I enjoy it and I’m excited for the start of the season,” he added.

Bellingham believes the arrival of new players, together with the presence of Mourinho, has created a positive mood within the squad.

“I have a good feeling about this season, especially with the new signings and the manager,” he said.

Real Madrid began their pre-season schedule with a 2-2 draw against Fiorentina. They then recorded a 2-1 victory over Ferencvarosi in their second preparation match.

On Wednesday, they secured a 1-0 win against Deportivo La Coruna in their third friendly. Their final pre-season test will come against German side Schalke before the new campaign gets under way.

The club finished second in La Liga last season, behind champions Barcelona. They will begin the new season away from home against Espanyol on Saturday, 22 August.

Bellingham’s return comes as Real Madrid complete the final stages of their preparations, with the midfielder now back alongside his team-mates and adapting to the demands of Mourinho’s training regime. His comments underline the optimism around the team, despite the fact that their last friendly remains before the opening league fixture.

The England international’s positive assessment also reflects the importance he places on the club’s summer changes. With new signings added to the squad and Mourinho now leading the team, Bellingham believes Real Madrid can approach the season with confidence after finishing runners-up to Barcelona last term.