Camavinga’s France revival gives Mourinho a timely Real Madrid boost

Eduardo Camavinga’s return to form with France has provided Jose Mourinho with an important lift ahead of Real Madrid’s return to competitive action, after the midfielder produced an outstanding display under new national-team manager Zinedine Zidane.

Camavinga’s performance was more than a promising international appearance. It suggested the 23-year-old is beginning to rediscover the level expected of him since his emergence at Rennes in 2019, when he was 17.

The midfielder joined Real Madrid in 2021 and played an influential role in the club’s run to Champions League success. His progress subsequently became less consistent, however, as several managers took charge and his opportunities were increasingly limited.

Last season proved particularly difficult. Camavinga’s problems were compounded by his dismissal against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final, a mistake that had a significant impact on his campaign. He was later left out of Didier Deschamps’ squad for the World Cup.

His situation began to improve after Mourinho took charge. Camavinga was given more opportunities from the start of this season and gradually began to recover his form, while also benefiting from a period without injury.

That improvement persuaded Zidane to select him for his first France squad since becoming manager. Camavinga responded immediately on the pitch, according to French outlet Foot Mercato.

After making a strong impression during the international break, he returned to the starting line-up against Belgium at Stade de France and delivered one of his finest performances for Les Bleus.

Camavinga played 88 minutes of France’s 4-1 victory and controlled much of the midfield. He completed 89% of his passes, made 11 passes in the attacking third and played a central role in helping France build their attacks.

His contribution was equally significant without the ball. He worked tirelessly to disrupt Belgium’s attacks, winning possession eight times and making four interceptions. Alongside Manu Kone, he formed an effective partnership in midfield.

The performance has pleased Real Madrid and prompted increased praise for Camavinga in Spain. He appeared more confident and influential than during much of the previous season, while Zidane’s faith offered further encouragement.

For Mourinho, Camavinga’s display is a valuable development before Real Madrid resume their campaign. The manager now has a midfielder who is gradually returning to the form that originally convinced the club to sign him.

At the same time, Camavinga’s showing appears to have strengthened his position in Zidane’s plans for France, with the former Real Madrid manager viewing him as an important part of his project.