League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: Spain Category: Scores & Results

Deco praises Mourinho's return to Real Madrid as a challenge

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 24, 2026, 7:00 PM

Last updated Sep 24, 2026

Deco praises Mourinho's return to Real Madrid as a challenge

Summary

FC Barcelona sporting director Deco commended Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho, calling him ‘one of the best coaches in history’ during the Portugal Football Summit on September 24, 2026. Deco, who played under Mourinho at FC Porto, expressed happiness for his former mentor's return to La Liga despite the rivalry between the clubs. He recognized Mourinho's presence as a complicating factor for opponents, which he welcomed. Deco also commented on recent refereeing complaints from Madrid following their derby defeat to Atletico, emphasizing Barcelona's focus on their own performance rather than external issues.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Deco spoke at the Portugal Football Summit on September 24, 2026.
•He praised Mourinho's coaching abilities and presence in La Liga.
•Deco played under Mourinho at FC Porto, winning multiple trophies.
•He addressed Real Madrid's refereeing complaints indirectly.
•Barcelona is concentrating on their own performance, per Deco.

Latest Updates

7:00 PMYahoo Sports — Barcelona director happy to see Mourinho back at Real Madrid: ‘One of the best coaches in history’

What they're saying

"
During his appearance at the Portugal Football Summit, organised by the Portuguese Football Federation, FC Barcelona sporting director Deco hailed Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho as ‘one of the be...
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona Real Madrid Atletico Madrid LaLiga Soccer