Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has expressed his delight at reuniting with José Mourinho, revealing that the Portuguese manager has become noticeably calmer and more mature since their time together in London.
Mourinho returned to the Santiago Bernabéu on June 11th on a three-year contract, ending a 13-year absence from the Madrid dugout. Tasked with rebuilding Los Blancos following two consecutive trophyless campaigns, the 63-year-old manager was brought in to halt rival Barcelona’s domestic dominance.
Read Also:Tinubu Rewards Flamingos With ₦100 Million Each For World Cup Triumph
Courtois previously played under Mourinho at Chelsea during the 2014–15 season, winning the Premier League title together. Reflecting on their reunion, the Belgian international noted a subtle shift in the manager’s approach while emphasizing that his commanding aura remains intact.
“It was really exciting to have him back. He fills the room. When you come in and he’s there, you feel he’s there. I think that is something that we needed,” Courtois said.
“I think he himself says he has maybe grown to be more mature even,” Courtois explained. “With the experience, I think sometimes he is a bit calmer. At Chelsea, I remember he was a bit stronger in the dressing room, a bit more heavy and intense. Now he still is, but I feel he is a tiny bit less so from what I remember 12 years ago. But he’s still the same personality, the same presence.”
Read Also:AFCON 2027Q: Full House In Uyo As Super Eagles Intensify Preparations For Tanzania Clash
After a slow start to his second spell at the club, Mourinho has managed to stabilize the squad’s form.
“At the beginning, we had two losses, but now everything is going well and we hope to keep that run going,” Courtois added.
During his initial tenure between 2010 and 2013, Mourinho took charge of 178 matches for Real Madrid, lifting the 2011 Copa del Rey, the 2011–12 La Liga title, and the 2012 Spanish Super Cup.
Source: