Mourinho’s late-night welcome at Valdebebas underlines Real Madrid’s new-found togetherness

The 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou has transformed the mood around Real Madrid, with Jose Mourinho receiving a remarkable reception from supporters in the early hours of Monday morning.

At 02:30, when most of the city was asleep, around 100 fans gathered at the club’s Valdebebas training complex to welcome the team back from Barcelona. Mourinho, who was the central figure in the celebrations, arrived directly at the facility after the squad’s plane landed shortly after 02:00.

The scenes, recorded by cameras from Spanish television programme El Chiringuito, illustrated the extent to which the Portuguese manager’s standing has changed since returning to the club in June.

Supporters surrounded the team bus and Mourinho’s car, singing and chanting in celebration of the victory. As the manager left for his home, he waved to the crowd before joining in with their applause and sounding his car horn in response to the fans who had stayed awake until dawn.

The reception marked a sharp change from the uncertainty that had accompanied Mourinho’s appointment. Any doubts among a minority of Real Madrid supporters about the value of his second spell at the club appear to have been swept aside by the result in the Clasico.

Mourinho’s carefully selected starting line-up and clear tactical influence were evident throughout a demanding match. The performance and result have strengthened the belief that he has won over the club’s supporters and those around the team.

How Mourinho has united Real Madrid

The manager’s impact has extended beyond the results on the pitch. Mourinho has also used his public statements to create what has been described as a “common enemy”, at times directing attention towards the media or referees.

That approach has helped form a stronger link between the dressing room and the supporters, creating a united front around Real Madrid. The sense of togetherness is particularly significant after the disappointment of defeat in the most recent derby.

Despite the fluctuations that are part of football, supporters in the Spanish capital now believe the team has the necessary ingredients to challenge for a major trophy again.

Real Madrid have gone two years without lifting a major title, but the victory against Barcelona has left the club’s fans enjoying what they regard as the best period of the season so far. Whether the renewed optimism leads to silverware will be determined in the coming days and weeks.