Mourinho: “no player is untouchable in the Real Madrid squad”

José Mourinho makes no distinction when it comes to managing his squad. After Real Madrid’s hard-fought victory against Elche on Tuesday night, the Portuguese coach was asked about Arda Güler, who opened the scoring with a superb free kick before leaving the pitch in the 68th minute. The Madrid coach explained that the substitution of the midfielder was primarily due to tactical and physical considerations. Playing in a number 10 role, Güler was particularly responsible for covering a large area of the field. “He is not untouchable. In reality, no one enjoys such a status,” Mourinho stated at the press conference.

The Real Madrid coach also detailed his reasoning when he decides to make substitutions. “When I make substitutions, it’s generally because the team is losing control of the match,” he explained. Specifically regarding Güler, Mourinho felt that his activity had gradually decreased as the match progressed. “Arda was playing in the number ten position, which requires covering a large part of the field. As a result, he gradually lost intensity,” he added. Despite Güler’s exit, Real Madrid ultimately secured the three points thanks to a goal scored in the final minutes by Carlos Espi. This success also illustrates Mourinho’s demands on each of his players.