Former Portugal international Jorge Andrade has praised Jose Mourinho as both a “star” and a “mentor”, expressing his confidence that the iconic coach can restore Real Madrid to the summit of European football. After a rare season without silverware, the “Special One” has returned to the Santiago Bernabeu with the task of turning a star-studded side featuring Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham into serial winners once again.

Mourinho: The star mentor returns

Andrade has voiced strong support for Mourinho as the Portuguese tactician begins his second spell in charge of Real Madrid. In an interview with AS, the former Deportivo La Coruna and Porto defender described the 63-year-old as a footballing icon whose influence on modern coaching remains unmatched. He emphasised that Mourinho’s leadership brings renewed optimism to Florentino Perez’s latest project.

“Jose Mourinho is a star. He’s our mentor as a coach. He’s inspired many of us who are starting our coaching journeys. Everything he does—his composure, his interactions with the media and fans—sets an example. It was a major success for Florentino during his election campaign,” Andrade said. He added that Mourinho’s personality and vast experience could make this second reign even more triumphant than his first tenure from 2010 to 2013.

Unlocking the power of Mbappe

One of the most exciting aspects of Mourinho’s return is his upcoming partnership with Kylian Mbappe. After the French forward’s outstanding performances at the 2026 World Cup, Andrade expects Mourinho to channel that same energy and effectiveness to help Real Madrid reclaim the UEFA Champions League. The belief is that Mourinho’s tactical discipline and strategic precision will enhance Mbappe’s already lethal attacking prowess.

“He’ll definitely want Mbappe to replicate what he’s doing with France at the World Cup—winning titles and achieving key goals such as the Champions League, the most important trophy for Real Madrid,” Andrade added.

A golden opportunity for transformation

Mourinho has reportedly begun reshaping the squad’s direction, focusing on immediate success rather than long-term development projects. Current players are said to be energised by his arrival, with England star Jude Bellingham calling Mourinho a top-class coach and welcoming the addition of battle-tested winners to the dressing room.

Andrade pointed out that the timing could not be better for Mourinho, with Real Madrid coming off a season without trophies. “Mourinho’s second spell at Real Madrid is a great opportunity. He’s now a far more experienced coach and will enjoy this stint even more than his first. I think he has a golden opportunity to make significant changes to the team since Madrid didn’t win anything last year,” he explained.

Portuguese pride at the Bernabeu

Mourinho’s return also evokes strong national pride for Andrade, who sees both the coach and Cristiano Ronaldo as symbols of Portuguese excellence in global football. He admitted to being “happy like a kid” to see Mourinho back at the elite level, though he jokingly wished for exceptions when Real Madrid face his former club.

“Mourinho’s happy like a kid to return to Real Madrid, isn’t he? He’s a star. I wish him all the best. In Portugal, we’re lucky to have one of the best coaches in the world, like Mourinho, and players like Cristiano, who’s been at the top, the best, a Ballon d’Or winner who also played for Real Madrid. It’s very important for us to have them as our flag-bearers. That’s why I’m thrilled about Mourinho rejoining Real Madrid and I hope he wins every match—except against Deportivo,” Andrade concluded.