José Mourinho takes the helm at Real Madrid, replacing Álvaro Arbeloa, with a squad reshaped by seven new signings. The club spent 125 million euros on winger Yan Diomande, signalling a tactical shift. Mourinho plans a 4‑2‑3‑1 with a double pivot, moving away from the 4‑3‑3 of the past season. Jude Bellingham will anchor the attacking midfield role.

In attack, Mbappé is set as the centre‑forward, with Bellingham and Vinícius Júnior on either side. Diomande may start on the right or sit as a false‑winger, depending on whether Mourinho prefers pace or control. The choice will also affect the defensive balance, as right‑back Denzel Dumfries’ role shifts with Diomande’s presence.

Midfield will see Aurélien Tchouaméni lead the double pivot, partnered by Valverde or Silva, while the back line anchors with Cucurella left, Dumfries or Alexander‑Arnold right, and a centre‑back duo of Rüdiger and Konaté. This new structure aims to arrest Madrid’s title drought and restore competitiveness against Barcelona and other La Liga rivals.