Mourinho ahead of El Clasico: ‘People that thought a week ago Barcelona would thrash us will keep thinking the same’

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho stated it is unfair to compare his evolving squad to established Spanish champion Barcelona ahead of Sunday's El Clasico at Camp Nou. Mourinho noted that those expecting Barcelona to thrash Madrid will likely still feel that way regardless of recent outcomes. While Barcelona leads La Liga by six points over third-placed Madrid, Mourinho stressed that prior form holds no bearing in such a unique fixture.

Mourinho emphasized he has only been managing Real Madrid for a few months, unlike Barcelona counterpart Hansi Flick who arrived in 2024. Despite Barcelona entering after a midweek defeat to Paris Saint-Germain and Madrid entering on a four-game winning streak, Mourinho insisted Madrid remains in an initial building phase. Additionally, Mourinho confirmed he will not alter tactical plans specifically to contain in-form Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal.