Mourinho's second Real Madrid stint begins with grueling preseason fitness drills

Updated: July 15, 2026 — 14:36 CEST

Normality… work, demands, and lots and lots of intensity. That is how another day of training unfolded at Valdebebas. The first days at Ciudad Real Madrid are defined by one key word: intensity — a term that characterizes José Mourinho's approach from the very start of preseason.

The old new white coach does not allow relaxation for the players he is counting on in these early days. Since the first training session on Monday afternoon, the Portuguese manager has made his philosophy clear, despite missing the bulk of the squad. He refuses to waste time and has begun work with an inflexible hand.

Physical Demands Under Scorching Heat

These days, Mourinho has barely eight first-team players available (with three more — Militao, Rodrygo, and Mendy — recovering from injuries). Nevertheless, everyone already knows firsthand the physical beatings taking place in Valdebebas under scorching heat, with an average temperature of 28ºC (reaching 32ºC in the first session).

Direct. No speculation. Mourinho wants his troops ready from the first minute, and he has made that clear.

After a brief presentation on Monday, the players — alongside academy players working with the first team — are pushing themselves hard:

• In the gym: Completing strength exercises
• On the pitch: Prioritizing physical work with ball involvement
• Continuous running
• Acceleration drills
• Sprints
• Exercises targeting explosiveness and reaction capacity

Following the physical work, there is extensive ball work: set plays to correct situations, shape his tactical ideas, and establish the motto he wants his players to adopt. Upon his return to Valdebebas, Mourinho stated:

"It's not about working at Real Madrid, it's about working for Real Madrid; and it is with this spirit of mission that I am here."

Hypoxia Masks and Aerobic Work

The second work session, on Monday afternoon, saw the appearance of hypoxia masks — one of Antonio Pintus's favorite training tools. These masks are used to gauge the physical condition of the players, essential for understanding their fitness levels after the holidays.

Raúl Notario, physical trainer and director of the physical activity, physiotherapy, and sports area at Alfonso X el Sabio University (UAX), explained to AS:

"It is used to assess the footballer's respiratory capacity through an electrocardiogram and gas analysis."

That same Monday afternoon, more aerobic work followed.

Players Respond to Mourinho's Demands

Dean Huijsen, asked after training, was clear:

"It's normal for José Mourinho to be intense. We have to train well."

His teammate Álvaro Carreras shared the same sentiment:

"Full throttle with the new boss."

No one wants to disappoint Mourinho. So no one wants to lower the intensity level — whatever the circumstance. Despite the first physical beatings. Despite the prevailing heat. Mourinho demands, and no player wants to throw in the towel.

On Thursday, a new training session awaits.