According to a report by Madrid Universal on Thursday, October 15, 2026, Jose Mourinho has discussed the difficulties facing Real Madrid youngster Carlos Espi as he tries to secure a regular place in the first team while competing with Kylian Mbappe for playing time.

The young Spanish striker scored in Real Madrid's thrilling 4-3 Champions League victory over AS Roma on Wednesday night, strengthening his case for more opportunities despite his limited playing time this season.

Espi joined Los Blancos from Levante during the summer transfer window in a reported €25 million deal, replacing Gonzalo Garcia in the squad. Although he is still adjusting to life at the Santiago Bernabeu, his performances have already attracted attention.

However, Mourinho believes that competing with a player of Mbappe's calibre makes it particularly difficult for a young striker to earn regular minutes on the pitch.

“For an attacker to be in the same squad as Mbappe is not easy because Kylian is a hugely important player, and it's not easy to rotate with a player like him,” Mourinho said.

The manager explained that the challenge was not necessarily connected to Mbappe's status within the team but rather the exceptional quality he brings to Real Madrid.

Mourinho acknowledged that leaving the France international out of important matches simply to create more opportunities for Espi would be a difficult decision.

“Not because of status, but because of quality,” he added, emphasising why replacing Mbappe in the starting lineup would not be an easy choice.

Despite the competition for places, Mourinho has been impressed by Espi and believes the youngster has the potential to become a more influential member of the squad.

The Portuguese coach disclosed that Espi was among three players recommended to him when the possibility of Gonzalo Garcia leaving the club arose.

He also commended the individuals responsible for identifying the young striker, indicating that Real Madrid had made a positive decision by signing him.

“After seeing him, I always thought he'd be a player with an important profile for us,” Mourinho said.

His remarks suggest that Espi is considered a valuable attacking option who could contribute meaningfully to the team rather than merely serving as a backup for Mbappe.

According to the report, Espi has scored three goals in just 38 minutes of playing time this season. His impressive return demonstrates his ability to make an impact in front of goal, although he will need more playing time to prove that he can maintain his effectiveness consistently.

The youngster also possesses qualities that differ from those of Mbappe. His physical strength and sharp instincts inside the penalty area give Real Madrid another attacking option, particularly when the team needs a different approach in the final third.

These attributes could be especially useful against opponents who sit deep defensively or when Madrid struggle to find openings against stubborn opposition.

Espi's goal against Roma was particularly significant because it came during an extraordinary comeback. Real Madrid were trailing 3-1 before the young striker found the net in the 82nd minute to reduce the deficit.

Endrick later scored a headed equaliser before Antonio Rudiger completed the comeback in the 90th minute, securing a memorable Champions League victory for the Spanish giants.

For Espi, finding the net in such an important European encounter could strengthen his chances of receiving more playing time as the season progresses.