Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has stated that the Spanish club required an authoritative managerial figure like Jose Mourinho, despite holding high regard for former manager Xabi Alonso. Courtois offered insight into the club’s recent managerial transitions and credited the squad’s latest resurgence to both Mourinho and midfielder Jude Bellingham.
Mourinho Restores Order at Santiago Bernabeu
Alonso arrived at Madrid in 2025 following a historic Bundesliga title win with Bayer Leverkusen. He was tasked with revitalizing a team that had conceded the La Liga title to Barcelona, lost the Copa del Rey final to their rivals, and fallen to Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals. However, Alonso departed after less than eight months in charge following reported friction with club president Florentino Perez and forward Kylian Mbappe.
Following a difficult period under interim boss Alvaro Arbeloa—which included reports of dressing room unrest and a training ground conflict between Aurelien Tchouameni and Federico Valverde—Perez decided a stern leadership style was needed. The club reappointed Mourinho 13 years after his initial spell ended.
Having previously played under the Portuguese manager during his time at Chelsea, Courtois welcomed the appointment, as reported by 101 Great Goals. The Belgian goalkeeper stated that Mourinho still possesses his characteristic authority. “He tells us that he has matured, that with experience he is calmer,” Courtois said. “At Chelsea he was harder in the dressing room, but he still has the same personality. He fills the room; you can see his presence when he enters the dressing room. We needed something like that.”
Alonso’s Potential and Bellingham’s Resurgence
Reflecting on Alonso’s departure, Courtois admitted he was saddened by how things ended for the Spanish coach, who has since taken charge at Chelsea. Courtois expressed confidence that Alonso will succeed in London if given sufficient time, noting that bad results often lead to unfair blame being placed on managers.
On the pitch, Real Madrid’s form has improved drastically under Mourinho. The team entered the international break on an eight-game winning run across all competitions, including a 2-1 victory away against Barcelona. The result leaves second-placed Madrid just three points behind Barcelona in the La Liga standings.
Courtois highlighted Bellingham as a central figure in Madrid’s strong form. The England international, who was recently selected in the FIFPro World XI alongside Mbappe and Lionel Messi, has registered five goals and two assists in 16 matches this season.
“He had a great first season, but last year, like everyone else, didn’t play like he can. He also had a great World Cup; he was the best player for England. Now he is showing that level in Madrid and he is very important for us, both with the ball and in defensive tasks,” Courtois explained.
Real Madrid are set to resume their La Liga campaign following the international break when they host Celta Vigo.
