Jose Mourinho has praised Marc Cucurella, Eduardo Camavinga and Andriy Lunin after Real Madrid secured a 2-1 victory over Barcelona in the first El Clasico of the 2026/27 season.

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Monday, 26 October 2026, the Real Madrid manager discussed his tactical decisions, squad depth and individual performances following the important win at Camp Nou.

Mourinho also took a playful swipe at Barcelona supporters, revealing that their singing outside his hotel had disrupted his afternoon rest before the match.

“I dedicate this win to the Barca fans that did not let me take my nap in the hotel today,” he said.

“They came to the hotel and they kept singing all day, so I couldn’t take my nap. Well, I didn’t nap, but I did beat their team. A big hug to them.”

The Portuguese tactician was particularly impressed with Cucurella’s defensive performance against Lamine Yamal, highlighting the left-back’s discipline and intelligence in dealing with the Barcelona winger.

Mourinho also praised Yan Diomande for limiting Barcelona’s attacking threat from the opposite flank, describing the defensive display as an excellent team effort.

Discussing his midfield options, the Madrid boss explained why he values players with different qualities, insisting that a combination of complementary strengths provides better balance.

He also highlighted Camavinga’s impact after introducing the midfielder to help maintain the press and create opportunities on the counter-attack.

“The match needed fresh legs to keep up the pressing and to launch counter-attacks,” Mourinho explained.

Camavinga subsequently played a crucial role in the move that produced Real Madrid’s match-winning goal, vindicating the manager’s decision to bring him on.

Mourinho also praised the depth of his squad, stressing that no starting position was guaranteed despite the quality of his available players.

“The squad is very strong. I’ll never say that this is my first-choice team or that this line-up is set in stone, because the squad is very good and well-rounded. The lads work hard. Everyone is ready.”

Lunin also received special recognition after replacing Thibaut Courtois, who missed the match through illness. The Ukrainian goalkeeper delivered a composed performance in one of the season’s biggest fixtures.

“We have the best goalkeeper in the world, but today none of us has been upset that Thibaut isn’t playing,” Mourinho said.