Ex-Real Madrid Star Warns Mourinho About Vinicius, Mbappe: ‘Play improves when they have only one

According to a report by Madrid Universal on Monday October 19, 2026, Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santi Canizares has warned Jose Mourinho that his team could perform better when either Kylian Mbappe or Vinicius Jr plays without the other, following their 4-1 victory over Sevilla on Sunday.

The Spanish football legend believes the absence of Vinicius, who is serving a four-match suspension, helped Mourinho’s side maintain a better defensive structure.

Speaking on Spanish radio station COPE, as reported by Defensa Central, Canizares explained that both forwards contribute less defensively, leaving the team vulnerable when they play together.

“Madrid’s play improves when they have only one of the two, Mbappe or Vinicius, up front,” he said.

He added that the team becomes more compact and better protected when only one forward features. Canizares also suggested that goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois benefits from the improved defensive organisation.

Despite the victory, the former goalkeeper acknowledged that Madrid’s overall performance lacked fluidity. However, he praised the individual quality of their players, particularly Arda Guler and Mbappe, whose goals helped secure the convincing result.

Canizares also highlighted the contributions of Yan Diomande and Federico Valverde on the wings. He believes their positioning has brought interesting tactical options to Mourinho’s side.

He further praised the build-up play involving Dean Huijsen and Guler, describing it as more fluid and closer to the style of football the team should produce.

Regarding the midfield, Canizares believes Aurelien Tchouameni and Valverde could form an effective partnership if they receive sufficient support from the full-backs and attacking midfielders.

He explained that closer positioning would allow the players to exchange simpler passes and maintain better connections across the pitch.

The former goalkeeper also addressed the controversy surrounding Guler’s challenge against Sevilla. Responding to complaints that the Turkish midfielder should have received a red card, Canizares argued that Madrid have also suffered from questionable refereeing decisions this season.

However, he admitted that the available footage was insufficient to establish whether the incident warranted a dismissal.

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