Real Madrid manager José Mourinho finds relief in the club’s upcoming fixture list as the squad prepares to step away from the demanding Bernabéu atmosphere for nearly a month of away fixtures and international action.
The pressure at the Santiago Bernabéu has defined the early phase of Real Madrid’s season. Across four matches played at home in Chamartín, Mourinho’s side has secured victories but consistently faced jeers from supporters demanding a higher standard of play. Despite maintaining a record of victories on home turf, every fixture in Madrid has turned into a high-stakes exam that leaves fans unsatisfied.
That home-field scrutiny will pause for almost four weeks. Real Madrid’s next home appearance is not scheduled until Oct. 10 against Villarreal, giving the squad a prolonged break from the immediate tension of the Bernabéu stands.
The Road Ahead: Elche and the Madrid Derby
Before the international window halts club football, Real Madrid faces a demanding stretch on the road. The immediate challenge comes on Tuesday, Sept. 15, when the squad travels to face Elche at the Martínez Valero for a match kicking off at 21:30, followed by a derby against Atlético Madrid at the Metropolitano on Sept. 20 at 16:15.
Following the clash with Atlético, the September international break takes effect, suspending league action entirely until October. When domestic play resumes, Real Madrid will return home to face Villarreal on Oct. 10, restarting the cycle of home expectations in the capital.
Mourinho Addresses Media Wear and Tactical Realities
Ahead of the Elche fixture, Mourinho voiced frustration over an intense media workload, pointing to a schedule that required six press conferences across a single crucial week. The Portuguese coach remarked on the heavy media demands wearing down players, staff, and journalists alike during a demanding stretch of the season.
On the tactical front, Mourinho noted that maintaining a high-intensity press for a full 90 minutes remains unviable given the current profile of his squad. To navigate the upcoming fixtures, stars such as Vinicius, Bellingham, and Mbappé are expected to feature in the starting lineup against Elche.
The manager also touched on internal roster competition, noting that players like Diomandé face a steep climb for minutes behind established names, while the club awaits the return of Rodrygo in January.
Next Confirmed Checkpoint
Real Madrid meets Elche on Tuesday, Sept. 15, at the Martínez Valero, with kickoff set for 21:30, before preparing for the derby at the Metropolitano on Sept. 20.
Worth a look
