Jose Mourinho has implemented three strict measures at Real Madrid since his summer return to the club, focusing on player discipline and performance. The legendary manager was hired to restore order to the dressing room after a disappointing trophy-less season for the Spanish giants.
Mourinho's new rules address nutrition, punctuality, and injury recovery, aiming to instill higher standards within the squad, which includes high-profile players such as Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior. According to Spanish outlet AS, these changes signal a shift from previous practices where players had more autonomy.
Nutrition Guidelines
Players are now assigned specific daily meal plans curated by the club's nutritionist. This includes breakfast and snacks, with the nutritionist moving from an advisory role to one that dictates menus for all players. The focus is on performance-driven diets rather than individual preferences, a change that has reportedly been met with a positive reaction from the players.
Punctuality Policy
New protocols are in place for lateness to training or meetings at the Valdebebas facility. Previously, infractions resulted in financial penalties. Under Mourinho's new system, players who arrive late will train separately from the main group, working out alone in the gym. All players are now required to arrive one hour before the scheduled start of training, with sanctions applied regardless of a player's status or hierarchy within the team.
Injury Recovery Protocols
All injury rehabilitation sessions and programs must now be conducted exclusively at Real Madrid's Valdebebas training complex. Mourinho's intention is to make recovery a more unified team effort. External treatments are banned, and all medical details must be managed and coordinated through the club and Mourinho's staff. This aims to ensure a consistent and club-controlled approach to player health and recovery.
Real Madrid is set to begin its new campaign with an away match against Espanyol on August 22. Last season, the team finished 12 points behind rivals Barcelona in the league standings.