Jose Mourinho Leads Real Madrid Into Champions League Clash Against Former Player Cristian Chivu's Inter Milan

Jose Mourinho's second stint at Real Madrid has enjoyed a strong start, with three wins and 10 goals in his opening three matches. A formidable front three of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Junior, and Kylian Mbappe has taken shape under the Portuguese coach, who returned to the dugout 13 years after his initial departure from Los Blancos. Following a 4-0 victory over Malaga at the Bernabeu—following a 4-1 home win against Real Sociedad and a 2-1 triumph at Espanyol—Mourinho expressed confidence in his attacking trio, who have already combined for seven goals and four assists.

While all three forwards faced criticism from Real fans last season, Mourinho has praised their compatibility and skill. Bellingham has seen his defensive workload reduced to focus on the attack, with Mourinho calling the 23-year-old a unique player. Mbappe has been lauded as hungry to make history after scoring a hat-trick against Sociedad, while Vinicius has been described by Mourinho as a machine following his new six-year contract.

However, Real experienced their first setback with a 1-0 defeat at Real Betis, despite registering 20 attempts on goal. Troy Parrott scored for Betis in the 81st minute, handing Mourinho's side their first defeat of the domestic campaign. The result leaves Real in third place in La Liga, three points behind leaders Barcelona ahead of the upcoming Clasico on October 25.

Real now turn their attention to hosting Inter Milan in their opening Uefa Champions League fixture on Tuesday. Inter are managed by Cristian Chivu, a former defender who played under Mourinho during their treble-winning 2009/10 season. Chivu took over at Inter in the summer of 2025 and secured a domestic double in his first season. Chivu's side have also started their Serie A title defense strongly, winning all three of their opening matches, including a 3-2 comeback victory against Napoli at the San Siro.

Ahead of the European encounter, Mourinho expressed great affection and respect for his former player, highlighting Chivu's successful transition into management at the top level.