According to a report by Madrid Universal on Sunday, October 25, 2026, José Mourinho is reportedly preparing a tactical strategy to exploit Barcelona’s defensive weaknesses ahead of the first El Clásico of the 2026/27 season.

The report claims that the Portuguese manager intends to disrupt Hansi Flick’s tactical system by putting pressure on key Barcelona players and forcing them to contribute more defensively. Mourinho reportedly believes this approach could create spaces that Real Madrid’s attackers can exploit during the highly anticipated encounter.

Four Barcelona players have reportedly been identified as potential targets of this strategy: Lamine Yamal, Anthony Gordon, Pedri and Rodri. Their roles in Barcelona’s attacking and midfield systems could make them important figures in Mourinho’s reported plans.

Barcelona’s high defensive line has been central to Flick’s approach, allowing his team to press opponents aggressively and maintain possession. However, the system can also leave significant spaces behind the defensive line, particularly when opponents win the ball and launch quick counterattacks.

Mourinho reportedly wants Real Madrid to take advantage of these situations by winning possession and transitioning quickly into attack. By forcing Barcelona’s attacking players to track back repeatedly, Madrid could also attempt to reduce their energy and effectiveness when moving forward.

Yamal and Gordon are regarded in the report as important attacking outlets because of their width and creativity. Meanwhile, Pedri and Rodri are associated with controlling possession and helping Barcelona progress the ball through midfield.

Limiting the influence of these players could make it harder for Flick’s side to establish its preferred rhythm. If Barcelona struggle to maintain control in midfield or provide consistent attacking support, Real Madrid could find more opportunities to threaten their opponents.

The report also suggests that Mourinho is considering lessons from Barcelona’s recent Champions League performances against Paris Saint-Germain. Their difficulties when placed under sustained pressure have reportedly influenced his thinking ahead of the derby.

Real Madrid possess attacking options capable of exploiting spaces behind a high defensive line. Kylian Mbappé and Yan Diomande are highlighted in the report as potential threats who could benefit from quick transitions and defensive mistakes.

However, the effectiveness of Mourinho’s reported approach will depend on how successfully Real Madrid execute their game plan and whether Barcelona can adjust their defensive organisation.

With both teams expected to approach El Clásico with considerable determination, the tactical battle between Mourinho and Flick could become one of the encounter’s most closely watched aspects.