Manolo Lama Attributes Real Madrid’s Turnaround to Four Mourinho Decisions

Journalist Manolo Lama believes Real Madrid’s run of eight consecutive wins and the collective cohesion that accompanied it came as a result of four decisions by coach José Mourinho. Lama shared his analysis on the radio programme El Tertulión on COPE, alongside Juanma Castaño.

According to Lama, the first decision was to persuade Fede Valverde to play as a right-back, even though he does not prefer that position. He said the change of role allowed the team to benefit from his defensive balance, physical strength and forward runs.

The second decision was to play Bernardo Silva and Arda Güler together. Lama considered that their presence gives the team more creativity in midfield and helps create chances, link the lines and control the pace of play.

Lama also pointed to the success of Mourinho’s start with Vinícius Júnior, saying that giving him confidence and freedom within a collective framework helped him produce better performances and deal with pressure. The source stated that the player is suspended for four matches following his sending-off against Villarreal.

Lama described strengthening teamwork as the most important decision, explaining that Mourinho convinced the players of the need to make a balanced collective effort, even when the forward does not run, with the other players making up for it. The report concluded that, in this assessment, the four decisions helped turn the team into a more cohesive group, with the players taking responsibility for their roles.