José Mourinho’s biggest challenge at Real Madrid is finding a way for Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior to perform effectively together, according to an analysis by Mario Cortegana of The Athletic. Both forwards remain key figures in Mourinho’s plans, but their partnership has yet to deliver the attacking chemistry the club expected.
Mbappé and Vinícius Struggle to Find Space Together
The problem was evident during Real Madrid’s 2-1 derby defeat to Atlético Madrid. Both forwards frequently occupied similar areas on the left wing, limiting their ability to create space for each other. Neither player scored in the match.
Across Madrid’s first eight matches of the season, Mbappé recorded eight goals and two assists, while Vinícius contributed one goal and three assists.
Mourinho is working to ensure the forwards occupy different spaces during counterattacks. Real Madrid have also moved away from the 4-4-2 formation used in recent years and adopted a more compact 4-2-3-1 system.
Under this approach, the forwards are expected to help protect space and maintain the team’s overall shape. Creative players such as Arda Güler could also play an important role in improving Madrid’s attacking structure.
Real Madrid Face Growing Pressure Ahead of El Clásico
Real Madrid are six points behind Barcelona in La Liga, with the first El Clásico of the season scheduled for October 25.
The pressure is increasing as the club look to end a two-season wait for a major trophy. Madrid have also changed coaches four times during that period, highlighting the challenges surrounding the team’s recent performances.
The departure of Toni Kroos in 2024 and Luka Modrić in 2025 has also left questions about the team’s ability to control games creatively from midfield.
Although Mourinho inherited a dressing room that had experienced difficulties last season, sources close to the club told The Athletic that the atmosphere has improved. However, the team’s attacking structure remains an important area for improvement.
A former member of Madrid’s coaching staff reportedly believes changes are needed in the attack for Mbappé and Vinícius to develop a more effective partnership.
Mourinho Has No Plans to Drop Vinícius Júnior
Despite reports suggesting that Vinícius could lose his place in the starting lineup, people close to Mourinho told The Athletic that the coach has not seriously considered dropping the Brazilian forward.
Mourinho’s staff view both Mbappé and Vinícius as decisive players capable of changing matches. As a result, the coach generally aims to keep both forwards on the pitch for as long as possible.
The report also suggests that the players maintain a good relationship away from football. Their main difficulty appears to be the way they occupy space and interact during matches rather than any personal disagreement.
Mourinho has publicly supported Vinícius and dismissed speculation surrounding Mbappé during the international break as “ridiculous”. He also confirmed that the France captain would start against Villarreal on Saturday, October 10.
Villarreal Match Could Offer Clues Before El Clásico
Real Madrid’s match against Villarreal and the subsequent build-up to El Clásico will provide important tests for Mourinho’s tactical plans.
The coach must find a way to separate Mbappé and Vinícius in attacking areas while preserving their individual strengths and the team’s threat on counterattacks.
With both forwards central to Madrid’s ambitions, improving their understanding on the pitch could prove crucial to the club’s hopes of challenging Barcelona and competing for major trophies this season.