Jose Mourinho has commended Marc Cucurella, Eduardo Camavinga and Andriy Lunin following Real Madrid’s 2-1 triumph over Barcelona in the opening El Clasico of the 2026/27 season.

The Portuguese manager discussed his tactical choices, the quality of his squad and several individual performances after the significant victory at Camp Nou. He also jokingly criticised Barcelona supporters for disturbing his afternoon rest before the match by singing outside his hotel.

Mourinho said he wanted to dedicate the victory to the fans who had prevented him from taking his usual nap. He explained that their persistent singing had kept him awake, adding humorously that although he had missed his rest, he had still managed to defeat their team. He ended his message with a friendly greeting to the supporters.

Beyond the light-hearted exchange, Mourinho highlighted the importance of defensive discipline in securing the result. He praised Cucurella for his performance against Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, pointing to the defender’s intelligence, concentration and ability to contain the threat posed by the young attacker.

The Madrid manager also recognised Yan Diomande’s contribution in limiting Barcelona’s attacking opportunities from the opposite flank. He described the defensive work across the team as a collective achievement, suggesting that individual performances were strengthened by the players’ willingness to work together.

Mourinho also explained his approach to selecting midfielders with different strengths. He believes combining players with complementary abilities gives the team greater balance and allows him to adapt to different situations during matches.

Camavinga’s introduction proved particularly important as Real Madrid sought to maintain their intensity and exploit opportunities on the counter-attack. Mourinho explained that fresh legs were needed to sustain the pressing game and help the team transition quickly when possession changed.

The midfielder subsequently contributed to the attacking move that produced Madrid’s winning goal, underlining the value of the manager’s substitution. His performance demonstrated how players introduced from the bench can influence decisive moments in major fixtures.

Mourinho also praised the overall strength of his squad, insisting that no player should assume a permanent place in the starting lineup. He described the group as talented, balanced and hardworking, emphasising that competition for places would remain important throughout the campaign.

According to the manager, the depth available to him means he can select different combinations without significantly weakening the team. He also highlighted the players’ commitment and readiness to contribute whenever called upon.

Lunin received special recognition after stepping in for Thibaut Courtois, who missed the encounter because of illness. The Ukrainian goalkeeper delivered a composed display in a high-pressure match, helping Madrid maintain their advantage against their fierce rivals.

Mourinho acknowledged Courtois’s standing as one of the world’s leading goalkeepers but said the team had no reason to be disappointed with Lunin’s performance. His comments reinforced the manager’s confidence in the squad’s depth and the importance of having dependable alternatives in every position.

The victory provided Real Madrid with a significant result in the early stages of the season, while Mourinho’s remarks highlighted the tactical discipline, individual contributions and collective strength that helped secure the win.