2026 World Cup: I Want Real Madrid Players to Lose — Mourinho

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that he wants members of his squad participating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be eliminated early so they can return in time for the club’s preseason preparations.

The Portuguese coach made the light-hearted remark during an appearance on the BeastModeOn podcast while discussing the impact of international tournaments on club football.

Real Madrid have one of the largest contingents of players at the ongoing World Cup, with stars including Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Aurelien Tchouameni, Antonio Rudiger and Marc Cucurella all representing their respective national teams.

Several of those players are expected to progress deep into the competition, raising concerns about how much rest and preparation time they will have before the start of the new club season.

Speaking on the podcast, Mourinho jokingly admitted that, from a club manager’s perspective, he would prefer his players to return sooner rather than later.

“What am I looking forward to in the World Cup?” Mourinho asked.

“I want Real Madrid players to lose because I want them back for preseason with me in July.”

His comments reflect the challenges many top club managers face during major international tournaments, where extended participation by key players often shortens their offseason break and limits their involvement in preseason training.

Preseason is regarded as a crucial period for managers to implement tactical ideas, improve players’ fitness and integrate new signings before competitive fixtures begin.

With Real Madrid expected to compete on multiple fronts next season, including La Liga, the UEFA Champions League and domestic cup competitions, Mourinho will be eager to have his full squad available as early as possible.

Despite his humorous remarks, Mourinho has consistently expressed admiration for international football and has previously described representing one’s country as one of the highest honours in the sport.

Real Madrid’s players have enjoyed impressive campaigns at the World Cup so far, with several helping their nations secure qualification for the knockout stages.

France, Brazil, England and other major football nations remain among the favourites to challenge for the trophy, meaning Mourinho could have to wait until after the tournament before welcoming some of his biggest stars back to Madrid.

For now, the experienced coach can only watch from afar while hoping his squad returns fit, healthy and ready for another demanding campaign.