Mourinho dismisses Barcelona comparisons as Real Madrid prepare for Atletico derby

Jose Mourinho says Real Madrid will not be distracted by Barcelona’s perfect start to the La Liga season, insisting the title race is a “marathon” rather than a short sprint.

Barcelona have won all six of their opening matches and lead the table after scoring 28 goals – at least 11 more than any other side. Real Madrid are second on 15 points but have yet to convince their supporters with their performances.

Mourinho’s side face one of their biggest tests of the campaign when they visit city rivals Atletico Madrid in the seventh-round derby on Sunday.

Asked at his news conference on Saturday whether Barcelona’s form concerned him, Mourinho said he had no interest in comparing Real Madrid with their rivals.

“Historically and culturally, Real Madrid cannot compare itself with anyone, and that is why I will not compare myself with any team,” he said, according to AS. “I talk about ourselves, and I do that without any problem. I also talk about our problems and what we need to improve.”

He added: “Although it is becoming increasingly difficult to hear anything positive about Real Madrid, we continue to work with humility. We have no problem recognising our problems, but we are also aware of the very good things we have in the team.”

Mourinho points to Elche and Real Betis

The Portuguese manager highlighted the character Real Madrid have shown when faced with difficult moments this season, referring to the way they responded late in several matches.

“In the three games in which we reached the final minutes needing to score to win or draw, we finished them with physical and mental strength, fighting spirit and determination,” Mourinho said.

He used the match against Elche as an example, saying it was unusual for Real Madrid to lead 2-0 before conceding an equaliser in the 80th minute.

“But it is also not normal to draw in the 80th minute, then see the team change within a few minutes, create one chance, then another and another, and score and win,” he added.

Mourinho also recalled the team’s response against Real Betis.

“It is not normal to be behind against Betis and show that kind of heart,” he said. “Then we scored Espi’s amazing goal and missed the penalty, but we still had the strength to do more.”

‘The strength of the group gives me confidence’

Mourinho said Real Madrid’s qualities went beyond the individual ability within the squad, pointing instead to the collective strength displayed by the players.

“This team, alongside the quality it possesses, has a strength that means a great deal,” he said. “It is the strength of the group, and that gives me confidence.”

The Real Madrid manager concluded by stressing that the title race could not be judged through a brief opening burst.

“This is a marathon, not a fast track,” he said, reflecting his belief that the balance of the contest can change by the end of the season.