Real Madrid: José Mourinho impressed by Kylian Mbappé’s involvement
At the dawn of their first shared season at Real Madrid, José Mourinho is already taken by Kylian Mbappé’s mindset. The Portuguese coach particularly appreciated the initiative of the Blues captain, who returned to training earlier than expected after the 2026 World Cup.

Kylian Mbappé wasted no time sending a strong signal to José Mourinho. While he was initially set to return to training on August 14, the French forward showed up two days earlier in Valdebebas. Back from the 2026 World Cup, the captain of the French team could have taken a few extra days of rest. He ultimately chose to resume early to prepare as best as possible for the new season.
This decision has been particularly appreciated by José Mourinho. The Portuguese coach, who is starting his first campaign at the helm of Real Madrid with Mbappé, praised his forward’s attitude to the microphone of Chiringuito. “After the World Cup, Mbappé could have arrived on August 14. But he came on the 12th because he wanted to be ready to play against Schalke,” Mourinho explained.
The Frenchman quickly showed this intent on the field. Selected for the friendly match against Schalke 04, he found the back of the net and opened his scoring account for the pre-season. “I like that. He trains hard, with the same commitment and desire that I want to see,” Mourinho added. A first signal that is particularly encouraging for the Portuguese coach, who is expecting a lot from his captain.



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