Real Madrid Hosts Villarreal in La Liga Clash at Bernabeu

Real Madrid will host Villarreal on October 11, 2026, at Santiago Bernabéu in a La Liga match as the fourth-placed team seeks to strengthen its position. According to source reports, José Mourinho’s squad enters after a favorable record against Villarreal and a 15-point tally.

According to vietnam.vn, Real Madrid is unbeaten in the last five meetings with Villarreal, recording four wins and one draw. Villarreal has eight points from seven matches, seven fewer than Real Madrid.

According to realtotal.de, Kylian Mbappé is fit for the match after leaving international duty with a minor issue. The report said Real Madrid had at least 20 available first-team players, while Federico Valverde remained doubtful.

José Mourinho has defended Vinícius Júnior during a difficult period for the forward. The Brazilian has one goal and three assists in eight competitive appearances this season, compared with 22 goals and 10 assists in 53 matches last season.

"What pains me: I see that he wants to be at his best level, that he wants to be the one who wins games and makes the difference," said José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach.

Mourinho said Vinícius is working hard to return to his previous level and believes the player should receive backing. The coach also addressed how performance and support should be balanced.

"He deserves support," said José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach.

The coach explained that decisions about players would consider more than statistics or reputation. His comments came as Vinícius faced criticism from sections of the Real Madrid supporters.

"Performance principle, yes, but also openness – not for data, not for names, but for the moment, to recognize how to best help a particular player," said José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach.

Mourinho added that removing players immediately after poor performances could create difficulties. He emphasized the need to assess individual situations when making selection choices.

"It is risky to completely follow the performance principle, where you are out if you do not perform," said José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach.

Mourinho described Vinícius positively while discussing the forward’s current form. He said the player’s situation affected him emotionally as the attacker worked to regain his highest level.

"He is an extraordinary boy," said José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach.

"It hurts in my heart when a player like Vinícius, who is currently not at his outstanding level, is not supported by the fans," said José Mourinho, Real Madrid coach.

According to zamin.uz, Mourinho also faced a decision over the right-back position before the match, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Denzel Dumfries among the options. The final lineup was expected after the final training assessment.

Real Madrid arrived at Santiago Bernabéu from Ciudad Real Madrid before the eighth matchday fixture, according to realmadrid.com. The club was scheduled to face Villarreal at 21:00 local time.