Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has expressed his preference for neither Atlético Madrid nor Barcelona to secure victory when the two Spanish rivals clash in La Liga on Sunday.
According to Fabrizio Romano in a post on X on Friday, Mourinho said he would rather see both sides lose, although he acknowledged that such an outcome was impossible.
“Atletico vs Barcelona? I’d like both of them to lose,” Mourinho stated. “Unfortunately that’s not possible. Points will inevitably be dropped, and that’s the best possible news.”
The fixture, scheduled for 21:00 local time on November 8, will have significant implications for the La Liga title race, with Barcelona currently leading the standings on 30 points from 11 matches.
Atlético Madrid occupy second position with 28 points, while Real Madrid sit third with 27 points.
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A win for either Barcelona or Atlético would strengthen their position in the title race, while a draw would see both sides surrender points, potentially giving Real Madrid an advantage.
The encounter at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano will see Diego Simeone’s Atlético side take on Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, with both clubs approaching the contest in impressive form.
Meanwhile, Mourinho has also reacted to Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to end his international career with Portugal after 23 years.
The former Real Madrid coach said the 41-year-old’s decision deserved respect, insisting that his departure from international football did not mean he was ready to quit playing professionally.
Mourinho said: “His decision must be respected, and I do respect it. He hasn’t ended his career; those who know him are aware that he still has goals.”
Mourinho, who worked with Ronaldo at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, said he hoped the forward’s eventual retirement from club football would come on a different day from his international farewell.
Ronaldo announced his decision to quit Portugal duty on Thursday following a period of tension involving national team coach Jorge Jesus.
Mourinho, however, avoided discussing the circumstances surrounding the decision, choosing instead to acknowledge Ronaldo’s choice and his continued ambitions at Al-Nassr.