José Mourinho marked his return to Real Madrid after 4,380 days with a dramatic 90th-minute winner against Espanyol. While the rest of the bench celebrated wildly, Mourinho reportedly clenched his fists and spoke with captain Fede Valverde.
The decisive goal came from 21-year-old Carlos Espí, a recent signing from Levante, who forced the ball over the line after a scrappy move. This secured victory in Mourinho's first match back in charge.
Real Madrid's first goal of this new era came after nine minutes, with Jude Bellingham heading in a superb cross from Arda Guler. Mourinho noted that Bellingham's position at No 10, close to the goal, is where he believes the player can have the most impact.
Despite the win, the match revealed some of Madrid's existing flaws, though doubts were reportedly allayed for a time. Mourinho has stated his belief that commitment is non-negotiable and that he has the authority to implement changes within the team.