Mourinho wary of Valencia test as Real Madrid prepare for four key returns

Real Madrid face a demanding visit to Valencia at Mestalla on Saturday, with Jose Mourinho expected to recall four rested players for a La Liga meeting that could allow his side to capitalise on the result of Barcelona’s clash with Atletico de Madrid.

The match, part of the 12th round of the Spanish top flight, comes after Real Madrid’s Champions League fixture against AEK Athens. Mourinho is concerned about the limited recovery time available to his players, according to Spanish newspaper AS, but intends to select the strongest team at his disposal because of the difficulty of the contest.

Mourinho made clear in his news conference that he regards Valencia as one of the most challenging opponents in the league. He highlighted their manager’s experience and defined footballing philosophy, as well as the intimidating atmosphere expected inside Mestalla.

The game carries added importance because Barcelona and Atletico de Madrid meet on Sunday. A Real Madrid victory would give them the chance to benefit if one or both of their rivals drop points, although they must first overcome Valencia.

Mourinho is expected to return to the side that has produced strong performances in recent matches, particularly since the victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou. However, changes are likely because of the demands of the previous fixtures.

Konate, Huijsen, Aurelien Tchouameni and Arda Guler were among the players given a rest against AEK Athens. Tchouameni and Guler did not travel with the squad to Greece as preparations began for the Valencia match.

Konate and Huijsen are expected to come back into central defence in place of Eder Militao and Antonio Rudiger, who started the European game. Tchouameni should replace Eduardo Camavinga, while Guler is set to regain his place in the starting XI.

Mourinho also plans to move Federico Valverde back to right-back and select Diomande on the left. The change is intended to improve Real Madrid’s attacking threat and make use of Diomande’s ability to break through Valencia’s defensive structure.

There is little doubt over Kylian Mbappe’s involvement. The France forward has scored eight goals in his past six matches and is Real Madrid’s main attacking weapon as they seek to secure three points.

According to AS, Real Madrid are expected to start with:

Goalkeeper: Courtois

Defence: Valverde, Konate, Huijsen, Cucurella

Midfield: Bernardo Silva, Tchouameni, Arda Guler, Bellingham, Diomande

Attack: Mbappe

Valencia v Real Madrid La Liga – 7 November 2026