Real Madrid’s dressing room is in a healthier state than it was last season, despite the recent scrutiny surrounding Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr. and their performances under Jose Mourinho.
According to Mario Cortegana in The Athletic, sources close to the club have rejected suggestions of renewed internal tension following Real Madrid’s defeat to Atletico Madrid before the international break.
While concerns remain about the team’s performances, those familiar with the situation believe the atmosphere at Valdebebas has improved compared to the previous campaign.
No tension between Mbappe and Vinicius
Both Mbappe and Vinicius have attracted attention for reasons beyond their performances, with questions also being raised about how effectively the forwards complement each other on the pitch.
However, sources consulted by Cortegana insist their relationship away from football is positive.
One description from Valdebebas captures the perceived difference between their personal connection and their on-field partnership.
“They get on well, although on the pitch they don’t connect,” they say.
Vinicius and Mbappe get on well with each other. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Another source, close to a player who maintains a strong relationship with both forwards, rejected the suggestion that the pair dislike each other while pointing to a potential problem in their approach to the game.
“It’s not that they don’t get on or hate each other.”
The same source added, “They compare themselves in everything, and if one doesn’t defend, neither does the other.”
Mourinho defends Mbappe amid off-field controversy
Mbappe’s recent holiday generated debate after images showed him riding a bicycle while recovering from a knee injury.
The discussion intensified because Mourinho had previously expressed a preference for players to avoid cycling during their free time.
However, the ride was considered leisurely and safe, and the incident did not cause concern for the Madrid coach.
Mourinho addressed the debate during Friday’s press conference, describing the attention surrounding Mbappe during the international break as “ridiculous”.
There is no tension within the Real Madrid dressing room. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)
He also confirmed that the France captain would start against Villarreal.
Real Madrid dressing room has improved, but…
Meanwhile, multiple sources close to Mourinho and the players maintain that the current atmosphere is better than last season’s, when player disagreements with former managers were common.
They acknowledge, however, that poor results could change the mood and that the team still has significant work to do.
A source close to Mourinho identified the two main priorities: “The team needs to defend better and be more effective in attack.”
The source continued, “And that’s what Mou has focused on during the break — finding internal and tactical solutions to the gaps in the team.”
Madrid’s immediate challenge is therefore to translate a healthier dressing-room environment into better performances.
With Villarreal next, what Mourinho needs is improved defensive organisation and a more effective attacking partnership between Mbappe and Vinicius.
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