Former Spain Coach Luis Aragones believes Jose Mourinho has the qualities to mastermind a Real Madrid fightback in the La Liga title race.
The reigning champions are already eight points behind Barcelona with just seven games played.
“In my view the merit of Mourinho is tremendous for all he has done and achieved,” the Euro 2008 winning tactician told O Jogo.
“I don't know what went on in the locker room, but I think the players are with him. Last year they were able to overcome Barca, and we know how difficult that is. They won the championship brilliantly.
“They had a bad start this year with results below expectations, and when that happens we talk problems, but in the last few games they have been better. I think they will soon return to the level the fans are accustomed to.
“There are a lot of games for Real to recover the deficit. For a team like them, nothing is lost.”
Aragones then commented on Atletico Madrid, the team he spent much of his career playing for and coaching.
“At the moment Atletico are performing at a very high level, but we know they are not at the level of Madrid and Barca. But it's also true that the championship is there to be played. They can have a good season, be closer to their rivals and even challenge for the title if they maintain this consistency.”
On his own career, the 74-year-old stressed that he isn't finished yet.
“I feel strong enough to return to work. If there is an interesting proposal.”
