Mourinho Returns to Real Madrid with Opening Day Victory

Manager José Mourinho celebrated a winning return to Real Madrid, securing a 2-1 victory against Espanyol in their opening match of the 2026-2027 La Liga season. The decisive goal came late in the second half from new signing Carlos Espi, marking a successful start for the Portuguese manager in his second stint with the club.

Mourinho, 63, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, leading them to a league title, Copa del Rey, and Super Cup, took the helm again after the team's two consecutive trophy-less seasons. His return signals an ambition to restore Real Madrid to its former glory.

The match saw Real Madrid take an early lead in the ninth minute through Jude Bellingham, who headed in a free-kick from Arda Güler. However, Espanyol fought back, equalizing in the 30th minute with a goal from Alex Calatrava, setting up a tense second half.

Mourinho introduced Espi, a recent transfer from Levante, in the 80th minute. The gamble paid off when Espi scored the winning goal after receiving a pass from Kylian Mbappé, who had dribbled into the penalty area. This victory was hard-fought, with Real Madrid facing strong resistance from Espanyol after their initial lead.

This offseason, Mourinho has overseen a significant squad overhaul, bringing in several high-profile players including Espi, Chelsea defender Marc Cucurella, and forward Jan Diomande from Leipzig. The manager praised his team's spirit after the match, stating, "It was a victory with heart, and the bench players played a big role. A team with great players like ours can win if it has players with a strong team spirit."

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It was a victory with heart, and the bench players played a big role. A team with great players like ours can win if it has players with a strong team spirit.