Steve McManaman reveals the one thing Jose Mourinho must do at Real Madrid

The last two years have been utterly dismal for Real Madrid, but they will hope to put things right during the 2026-27 season. No major trophies since the 2023-24 Champions League is a big disappointment, but if they are to get back on track, they have the ideal man at the helm.

Jose Mourinho was the clear choice to return as manager in the summer, and after Florentino Perez won the Real Madrid presidential election, the Portuguese’s comeback was confirmed. He started well with three wins in his first three La Liga matches, but a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis on Friday was a bitter blow.

One of the reasons that fans believe Mourinho will succeed, especially when compared to predecessors Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa, is his ability to manage big egos in the dressing room. Former Real Madrid player Steve McManaman was asked about his during a recent media appearance (via Sport), and he also made it clear how the 63-year-old must succeed in winning La Liga (at the very least) this season.

“He has returned precisely for that. The last time he was there between 2010 and 2013 and even then, he had to manage great personalities: Cristiano, Iker Casillas, Sergio Ramos… Now he has returned to try to overcome Barcelona.

“Without wanting to disrespect them, I think they will be above Atlético Madrid. They need to finish ahead of Barcelona. If they finish ahead of Barcelona, it will be incredible. If it finishes below, it will be a disaster. They have not won the league for three years. We know what he has to do and we will have to wait and see what happens. He has incorporated several important players such as Diomande, Bernardo Silva, Cucurella… And Espi, who is doing well. But most importantly, he needs Kylian and Vinícius Júnior to play together and do well. We will have to wait and see.”

McManaman on Trent: He has adapted well to Real Madrid

McManaman was also asked about Trent Alexander-Arnold, who like him, also swapped Liverpool for Real Madrid during his playing career.

“I talk to him and he’s fine. He has adapted well. The problem is that he had a lot of injuries last year. That was the problem. He had physical problems and the team was not at its best either. I think this year should be fine. Although, again, it’s going to be difficult with Barcelona. Barcelona have signed good players. The other day he played (against Malaga) and he did very well. I don’t have to give any advice to Trent. I talk to him. He knows what he has to do. He knows that he has to learn the language, adapt and enjoy his life in Madrid. And he is doing so. He has good friends there. I don’t think he has any problems.”