Mourinho Wants Barcelona, Atlético Madrid to Both Lose Ahead of La Liga Clash

Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has admitted he would prefer both Barcelona and Atlético Madrid to lose points when they face each other in a crucial La Liga encounter on Sunday.

Mourinho made the remark ahead of the meeting between the two Spanish sides at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on November 8, 2026, as reported by football transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday.

“Atletico vs Barcelona? I’d like both of them to lose,” Mourinho said. “Unfortunately, that’s not possible. Points will inevitably be dropped, and that’s the best possible news.”

The fixture carries significant implications for the title race, with Barcelona leading the standings on 30 points from 11 matches. Atlético Madrid are second with 28 points, while Real Madrid occupy third position with 27 points.

A win for either Barcelona or Atlético would strengthen their position in the title race. However, a draw would leave both sides dropping points, a result that could favour Real Madrid as they seek to close the gap at the top.

The encounter will see Diego Simeone’s Atlético side take on Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, with both teams expected to provide a major test for each other. Kick-off is scheduled for 9pm local time on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Mourinho also commented on Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire from international football, insisting that the Portugal captain’s choice should be respected.

“His decision must be respected, and I do respect it. He hasn’t ended his career; those who know him are aware that he still has goals,” Mourinho said.

The former Real Madrid coach, who worked with Ronaldo at the Spanish club between 2010 and 2013, stressed that leaving the Portugal national team did not mean the 41-year-old had ended his professional playing career.

Mourinho added that he hoped Ronaldo’s eventual retirement from football altogether would come on a different day from the announcement of his international departure.

Ronaldo confirmed on Thursday that he was ending his 23-year international career with Portugal. The decision followed a period of reported tension involving national team coach Jorge Jesus.

Mourinho declined to go into the circumstances surrounding the announcement, choosing instead to acknowledge Ronaldo’s decision and his ambition to continue playing for Al-Nassr.