Real Madrid defeated Ferencváros 2-1 [1] in a preseason friendly match held in Budapest, Hungary [2].
The victory serves as a critical tuning phase for the squad as they prepare for the official start of the La Liga season. It allows the technical staff to evaluate player fitness and tactical cohesion before competitive matches begin.
The match took place on Aug. 8, 2026 [2], at the Ferencváros stadium. Following the win, manager José Mourinho said he congratulated his players for their performance and the result [2]. The match provided an opportunity for the team to secure its first victory of the preseason tour.
During the post-match press conference, Mourinho addressed the current state of the squad and the club's recruitment strategy. He said he preferred a more streamlined group of players to manage the season's demands.
"Queremos una plantilla corta," Mourinho said [1].
The manager's comment suggests a move toward a smaller, more specialized roster rather than a bloated squad. This approach often focuses on increasing the playing time and importance of a core group of athletes, a strategy Mourinho has utilized in previous coaching roles.
While the friendly was a non-competitive fixture, the result in Budapest provides a psychological boost for the team. The club continues to refine its lineup and tactical approach under Mourinho's direction as the domestic league calendar approaches [2].
“Real Madrid defeated Ferencváros 2-1 in a preseason friendly match”
Mourinho's public desire for a 'short squad' indicates a tactical shift toward a tighter rotation. By limiting the number of players in the first-team pool, the manager likely intends to foster stronger chemistry and higher accountability among a select group of starters, reducing the complexity of squad management heading into the new season.
