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Mourinho begins Real Madrid pre-season amid World Cup disruptions

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 7:45 AM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Mourinho begins Real Madrid pre-season amid World Cup disruptions

Summary

José Mourinho will commence Real Madrid's pre-season preparations on July 13, overseeing medical tests and training sessions. However, he faces challenges with only 13 players available due to the ongoing FIFA World Cup, with 12 others still competing. Mourinho expressed frustration over the limited squad for initial training. Key players participating in the World Cup will join the team intermittently in July and early August, potentially missing the La Liga season opener on August 15. The situation echoes last season's challenges related to international commitments.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Mourinho begins on July 13 with only 13 players available.
•12 players remain in the World Cup, affecting pre-season preparation.
•Mourinho aims to evaluate uncertain squad members during pre-season.
•La Liga starts August 15, with potential absentees from the squad.

Latest Updates

7:45 AMYahoo Sports — Mourinho facing early headache on Real Madrid return with staggered pre-season

What they're saying

"
Real Madrid will officially begin preparations for the new season on 13 July, when José Mourinho oversees his first medical tests and training sessions as the club’s new head coach. However, the Po...
— Yahoo Sports

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