Is Mourinho's Real Madrid return working?

The Athletic FC Podcast kicks off by analyzing Real Madrid's narrow 2-1 victory against Inter Milan in their Champions League opener. While the win is welcomed, it raises concerns as the team's performance was far from convincing. Guest Guillermo Rey, reporting from the Bernabeu, highlights the frustrations felt during the match, particularly regarding a lack of control post-halftime and the crowd's discontent with certain player performances, especially Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Discussion centers on Mourinho's return to Madrid and the challenges he faces with the current squad. Analysts stress that while Madrid boasts world-class forwards like Mbappe and Bellingham, they lack a solid midfield presence, which could hinder their ability to perform consistently. The transfer strategy is also a hot topic, with debates on whether selling Vinicius for a more balanced squad would have been a better option.

The episode transitions towards Barcelona's burgeoning strength in La Liga, with commentary on their roster improvements. As they set their eyes on the Champions League, previous winners like PSG and Bayern Munich are noted for their tactical prowess and depth. The show anticipates exciting upcoming matches, including Arsenal, Liverpool, and other clubs entering the Champions League fray, ultimately positing that this season promises intense competitiveness.