Eduardo Camavinga’s outstanding performances for France have offered Jose Mourinho fresh encouragement, with the Real Madrid midfielder appearing to rediscover the form that made him one of European football’s most highly rated young players.
Camavinga was recalled by France manager Zinedine Zidane for his first squad in charge, and responded with a series of impressive displays during the international break. He then started against Belgium at Stade de France, producing one of his best performances for Les Bleus in a 4-1 victory.
The 23-year-old played 88 minutes and controlled the midfield with authority. He completed 89% of his passes, made 11 passes in the attacking third and played a central role in France’s build-up play.
His contribution was equally significant without the ball. Camavinga worked tirelessly to contain Belgium’s attacks, winning possession eight times and making four interceptions. He formed an effective partnership with Manu Kone in the centre of the pitch.
The display was particularly encouraging for Real Madrid and Mourinho, who have given Camavinga a greater opportunity to play since the start of the season. The midfielder has gradually begun to recover his best level, helped by a sustained period away from injury.
Camavinga first emerged at Rennes in 2019, aged 17, when expectations around his future were already considerable. He joined Real Madrid in 2021 and played an important part in the club’s run to Champions League success.
His progress afterwards was less consistent. His involvement gradually declined as several managers took charge, and he regularly found himself starting matches from the substitutes’ bench. Last season proved especially difficult for the France international.
Those problems were compounded by his sending-off against Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-finals. The mistake had a significant effect on his campaign and was followed by his omission from Didier Deschamps’ World Cup squad.
Under Mourinho, however, Camavinga has been able to establish a more regular presence from the opening weeks of the campaign. His form improved steadily before Zidane decided to bring him back into the France setup.
According to French publication Foot Mercato, the midfielder’s performances during the international break have strengthened the belief that he is returning to the level expected of him. His showing against Belgium also prompted increased praise in Spain, where he appeared more confident and influential under Zidane.
For Mourinho, Camavinga’s display represents a valuable boost before Real Madrid resume competitive action. The club once again have a midfielder beginning to resemble the player who persuaded them to sign him, while Zidane appears to have identified Camavinga as an important part of his plans for France.
