Mourinho publicly backs Camavinga after Real Madrid's results crisis

José Mourinho defended Eduardo Camavinga after Real Madrid’s 4-0 victory over Malaga on Saturday in the second round of La Liga. The French midfielder, who started, received public praise from his manager at the final whistle.

“Camavinga, a boy who isn’t very popular, played an excellent match. I’m very pleased with the response he gave,” the Portuguese coach said at his post-match press conference. A notable stance, as the French international had been facing heavy criticism after a disappointing previous season.

Arriving at Real Madrid in 2021 from Stade Rennais, Camavinga has never fully lived up to the hopes placed in him by Florentino Perez. Five years later, his future at the club seemed uncertain, especially as the midfield was identified as the main priority for the Merengues following the departures of Toni Kroos and Luka Modric.

Mourinho, Real Madrid’s third manager in a year, took over this summer with a mission to return to winning trophies after two seasons without a major title. The club recruited Bernardo Silva to compensate for Dani Ceballos’ departure, but the Rodri deal, though pursued, fell through: the Manchester City midfielder, crowned 2026 world champion with Spain, ultimately joined FC Barcelona.

In this context, Mourinho backed Camavinga from pre-season, starting him in three of four friendly matches. The Frenchman delivered, and his manager’s repeated public support is beginning to shift the Spanish media narrative. Marca stated this Tuesday that Camavinga “has the potential to reinvent himself as a key player for Mourinho, if he can maintain the level he showed against Malaga”.