Jose Mourinho believes Real Madrid have 'entered a period of psychological growth' – but he isn't enjoying the international break.
Real appear to have recovered from their poor start to the season, and their Coach has pinpointed the SuperCopa victory over Barcelona and the Champions League defeat of Manchester City as key.
“The Super Cup was the least important trophy but the fact its against Barcelona gives it more meaning,” Mourinho told Real Madrid TV.
“We won, and we deserved to win. It was important because we hadn't beaten Barca at the Bernabeu for a few seasons.
“The City game was fantastic, a great feeling, even if it was only the first group match. It was almost more exciting than winning a play-off.
“In the League I did not like my team. I did not like our work. But now we have entered a period of psychological work and stability. This team has shown that when it is well psychologically, it is very strong. Now we have to have continuity.”
The former Inter boss reflected positively on the recent 2-2 Clasico draw.
“It was fundamental for the team. In this time of rebuilding what mattered, rather than the points gap, was to play that game well. We left with an eight point gap, but with the team strengthened.”
Mourinho then explained his habit of rebuking players through the press.
“We have the right to be human, but these humans are special, the demands are very high. As a Coach, I prefer those who criticise by being aggressive in their comments. I tried to find the wounded pride of my players.
“I prefer that, rather than staying quiet and politically correct, being friendly, and keeping losing. We cannot accept that direction, we are Real Madrid.
“The victory against Rayo Vallecano gave us more confidence and we had a good game in Barcelona. But now 12 days is a long time without the players…”
The Portuguese tactician has taken legal action against the editor of Marca for a recent critical editorial.
“I don't care about these things, I've learned not to respond. Professional or sporting reviews are meaningful, they're OK. But when it entered personal offence, I decided that was enough.
“We'll meet in court. Respect should be given to a citizen that has been invited to work in your country. While my family is fine, I'll be fine at Madrid.”
