Real Madrid’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou has given president Florentino Perez renewed confidence in the club’s project under Jose Mourinho and revived their hopes of competing for the La Liga title.
Perez was not present in Barcelona because of strained relations between the two clubs, with a representative attending the match on his behalf. However, he made sure to congratulate the players and coaching staff afterwards, conveying his appreciation for their performance and praising several members of the team.
The result was particularly significant for Mourinho, who had faced criticism and questions over his ability to improve Real Madrid after the club’s defeat in the derby.
Some had argued that changing the manager had failed to resolve the team’s technical problems. The discussion had even moved towards possible alternatives, including Didier Deschamps.
Victory at Camp Nou, however, provided Mourinho with an important boost. Real Madrid showed they could compete in a major fixture, while the result offered support for Perez’s decision to place his trust in the Portuguese manager. Mourinho’s players delivered a performance which strengthened confidence within the club.
The president’s encouragement was not limited to the manager. The Clasico also provided reassurance over several signings and selections that had previously prompted questions.
Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham were central to Real Madrid’s success, underlining their importance to the club’s long-term plans. Their contribution strengthened the case for viewing both players as leading pillars of the project.
Turkish midfielder Arda Guler also impressed. Real Madrid are relying on him to become one of the team’s principal creators in the coming years.
Eduardo Camavinga, meanwhile, repaid the confidence shown in him by the club’s leadership despite criticism he had received at earlier stages. Both Guler and Camavinga produced notable performances against Barcelona, reinforcing Perez’s belief that they can play important roles in the team’s future.
The match demonstrated that Real Madrid possess a group of players capable of influencing the biggest games, whether through goals, creativity or their ability to control the rhythm of a contest.
Perez expects trophies
Despite the optimism created by the win, Perez knows that beating Barcelona does not secure any trophy. The success of the project will ultimately depend on whether Real Madrid can maintain their level throughout the season.
The president hopes Mourinho and his players can use the result as a platform to continue challenging for silverware. For Perez, the final outcome at the end of the campaign will be the true measure of his decisions, rather than the Clasico victory alone.
The relevant fixture listings include Barcelona in La Liga on 31 October 2026, followed by Deportivo Alaves and Racing Santander in La Liga on 01 November 2026, with Real Madrid also listed in the schedule.