Mourinho Imposes Strict Discipline at Real Madrid
The new coach of the Royal club has ended the relaxed atmosphere and introduced firm rules at Valdebebas, from diet to injury recovery.
The new coach of the Royal club has ended the relaxed atmosphere and introduced firm rules at Valdebebas, from diet to injury recovery.
The arrival of José Mourinho as Real Madrid's coach has already brought significant changes to the club's daily routine. The new manager assessed the situation at the Valdebebas training complex and concluded that stricter rules and his personal touch were needed, according to AS. The previous relaxed atmosphere and complete freedom for players in organizing their daily schedules are a thing of the past.
Mourinho's approach is not based on force but on determination and clear guidelines, and he considers unity a key element of success. A recent photo from the club, showing all players and coaches dining together at Valdebebas-something that was not previously the norm-further confirms this. The Portuguese believes such a routine is crucial for building team spirit, a practice he also implemented at Benfica.
"He wants to foster togetherness and unity, and so far it looks promising," said club sources to Index.hr. Another source added that "the atmosphere is very, very good."
Mourinho's determination is particularly evident in the new dietary regime. The role of the nutritionist is now more than advisory; they determine the exact meal plans for the first meal of the day and snacks. The goal is purely peak performance, leaving no room for personal preferences. This change has eliminated the previous option for players to choose their own food, and according to available information, it has not met with any discontent within the dressing room.
The new rules on punishment have also not caused dissatisfaction. Instead of fines for breaking rules, offenders must now train alone in the gym, away from the group. The rule stipulates that all players must be at Valdebebas one hour before the start of training, and lateness results in a penalty. The same rule applies to everyone, regardless of their status in the team.
Changes have also been introduced to the injury recovery process, which now takes place exclusively at the club's training center. Those recovering, even if they have private trainers, are required to be at Valdebebas during the morning and afternoon. It is no longer possible to attend therapy sessions outside the club, as the entire process is carried out in collaboration with club doctors. Recovery is no longer an individual matter but is under increased club supervision.
