Former Real Madrid midfielder Juanjo Maqueda has revealed how a Champions League clash against AS Roma prompted Jose Mourinho to rethink his defensive strategy at the Santiago Bernabeu. According to a report by Madrid Universal on Thursday, October 29, 2026, the Portuguese manager’s tactical adjustments have contributed to the improvement in Madrid’s performances in recent weeks.

Madrid have shown encouraging progress under Mourinho, with their recent 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Spotify Camp Nou providing a significant indication of the team’s development. However, Maqueda believes the manager’s change in approach can be traced to an earlier encounter against Roma, when Madrid conceded three goals despite fielding a physically imposing defensive lineup.

Speaking on Goles con Parrado, Maqueda explained that the match exposed the limitations of relying primarily on strength and physical presence when organising a defence. According to the former midfielder, Mourinho recognised that selecting powerful defenders did not automatically guarantee defensive security or prevent opponents from creating dangerous opportunities.

The experience reportedly encouraged the manager to reconsider his tactical principles and make adjustments rather than continue using a system that was not delivering the desired results. Maqueda’s comments suggest that the Roma encounter became an important learning experience for Mourinho as he searched for a more effective balance across the team.

One notable change has been the use of Federico Valverde at right-back. The Uruguayan midfielder’s deployment in that position has provided Madrid with additional energy and flexibility, helping the team maintain defensive organisation while still offering support during attacking transitions.

Valverde’s versatility has given Mourinho another option when selecting his defensive structure. His ability to contribute in different areas of the pitch has helped the manager address tactical demands without relying exclusively on traditional full-backs. The adjustment has also demonstrated Mourinho’s willingness to reconsider established positions when he believes another arrangement could benefit the team.

Maqueda also pointed to the manager’s openness to evaluating his decisions and listening to members of his coaching staff. Mourinho has previously indicated that he is prepared to review performances in matches and training sessions before deciding whether changes are necessary. He has rejected suggestions that he is unwilling to abandon his preferred ideas when circumstances demand a different approach.

That adaptability was particularly visible during the recent Clasico against Barcelona. Madrid delivered a disciplined performance, limiting their opponents’ opportunities and making effective use of their attacking moments to secure an important victory. The result strengthened confidence in the tactical direction Mourinho has been pursuing since taking charge.

Nevertheless, maintaining that standard will be the next challenge for the manager. Madrid must demonstrate that their improved organisation and tactical flexibility can be sustained beyond one high-profile fixture. Consistency will be especially important as the club continues competing across different competitions.

Their immediate assignment is a meeting with Racing Santander. Mourinho will be hoping his players carry the confidence gained from the Barcelona victory into the upcoming match while continuing to apply the tactical adjustments that have improved the team’s performances.