Real Madrid faces defensive struggles under Jose Mourinho

Real Madrid has conceded goals in seven of its first eight matches of the 2026-27 season. The team's defensive struggles are being attributed to a lack of midfield control and an unresolved balance between creativity and protection under manager Jose Mourinho.

While players like Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni provide physical security and transition coverage, the squad lacks a natural controller similar to former midfielders Toni Kroos or Luka Modric. This deficiency has made the team reliant on individual actions to break pressure, often leaving the defense vulnerable during transitions.