Mourinho delights Vinicius and reveals Real Madrid’s two Champions League objectives

2026-10-19 11:40 © scanpix

Real Madrid head coach José Mourinho revealed the team’s two main objectives in the UEFA Champions League.

"We have two goals in these eight matches. The first is to qualify for the knockout stage, and the second is to finish in the top eight.

That would mean playing two fewer matches.

Last season, Real Madrid had to play those additional matches, and they are certainly not desirable,” Mourinho said.

"This season, we have already earned six points against Italian teams under difficult circumstances. Leipzig have just lost to Bayern Munich, so they are now an even more dangerous opponent,” the Portuguese coach added.

He also commented on forward Vinícius’ chances of taking the field in the UEFA Champions League match against the German club.

"The Brazilian is well rested, and because he did not play against Sevilla, he focused heavily on his physical preparation. I hope everything goes well for Vinícius because he deserves it. He will be in the starting line-up on Wednesday. We need him,” the coach said.