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Mourinho prepares for La Liga opener against Espanyol with selection dilemmas

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 19, 2026, 8:20 AM

Last updated Aug 19, 2026

Mourinho prepares for La Liga opener against Espanyol with selection dilemmas

Summary

Jose Mourinho is set for his first match in his second spell as Real Madrid manager, facing Espanyol on August 22. He must finalize his lineup with key selection decisions in midfield, the attacking role, and right-back., Bernardo Silva is expected to play a crucial role, and Arda Guler may start in the No. 10 position. Denzel Dumfries could be favored over Trent Alexander-Arnold for the right-back spot, reflecting a shift in strategy during pre-season workouts. The final lineup will provide insight into Mourinho’s tactics for the new season.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Mourinho's first match back is on August 22 against Espanyol.
•Bernardo Silva likely to start in midfield.
•Arda Guler favored for the No. 10 role.
•Denzel Dumfries may start at right-back over Alexander-Arnold.
•Pre-season performance influences starting decisions.

Latest Updates

8:20 AMYahoo Sports — Mourinho faces three major selection calls for Real Madrid’s La Liga opener against Espanyol

What they're saying

"
Jose Mourinho is closing in on his first official match of his second spell as Real Madrid manager, but according to Mundo Deportivo, three important decisions remain unresolved ahead of Saturday’s ...
— Yahoo Sports

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