Jose Mourinho identifies six key starters for Real Madrid ahead of new season

Jose Mourinho is set to begin his second stint at Real Madrid with a core group of six players identified as automatic starters. Star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, along with Marc Cucurella, Fede Valverde, Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Kylian Mbappe, form the backbone of Mourinhos's anticipated lineup. Mourinho's return is supported by significant transfers, with the club bringing in players such as Denzel Dumfries and Ibrahima Konate. As pre-season unfolds, competition for various positions remains, particularly on the right flank and in defense. The ongoing transfer window may influence the final structure of the squad.

• 9:15 AMYahoo Sports — Jose Mourinho has six untouchable starters at Real Madrid as hierarchy begins to emerge – report