Porto president backs Mourinho to revive Real Madrid despite Barcelona challenge

Jose Mourinho remains the right man to turn Real Madrid’s fortunes around, according to Porto president Andre Villas-Boas.

Mourinho was chosen by Real Madrid president Florentino Perez last summer to end the club’s two-season wait for a major trophy. However, the Portuguese manager faces a significant challenge against Barcelona, who have appeared extremely difficult to defeat at the start of this season.

Real Madrid’s opening performances have fallen below expectations, but the club continues to place its trust in Mourinho. Villas-Boas has now publicly defended his fellow Portuguese, describing him as one of the best managers in world football.

Speaking to Corriere dello Sport in an interview reported by AS, the Porto president acknowledged the scale of the task facing Mourinho, while insisting he is the ideal coach to change Real Madrid’s situation.

“Jose Mourinho is still among the best managers in the world, and I have always known that,” Villas-Boas said. “He is now coaching the best club in the world, but it is unfortunate that Barcelona are in such good form.”

Villas-Boas added that Mourinho had previously faced Barcelona when they were performing at their highest level, including during his time at Inter Milan.

“He faced Barcelona when they were at their best, as was the case when he left Inter Milan,” he said. “But these are the challenges Mourinho enjoys most.”