La Liga: I wish Atletico vs Barcelona could end in double defeat — Mourinho - Punch Newspapers
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has made his feelings clear ahead of this weekend’s key La Liga clash between Atlético Madrid and Barcelona. As reported by Fabrizio Romano on X on Friday, the Real Madrid manager said he would prefer both teams to lose when they meet at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano on Sunday. “Atletico vs Barcelona? I’d like both of them to lose,” Mourinho stated. “Unfortunately that’s not possible. Points will inevitably be dropped, and that’s the best possible news.” The comment comes as Barcelona sit top of the table with 30 points from 11 games, two points clear of Atlético Madrid (28 points) and three ahead of Real Madrid (27 points). A victory for either side would strengthen their title credentials, while a draw would ensure both drop points, an outcome that would benefit Madrid’s challenge. The match is one of the biggest of the season so far, pitting Diego Simeone’s solid Atlético side against Hansi Flick’s free-scoring Barcelona. Both teams head into the fixture in strong form, making Mourinho’s wish for mutual disappointment a difficult one to fulfil.Make PUNCH part of your everyday experience.Add us to your Preferred Sources Kick-off is set for 21:00 local time on Sunday, 8 November 2026. Mourinho also responded to Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to retire from the Portugal national team. The Real Madrid manager said: “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, who coached Ronaldo during their successful spell together at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, stressed that the 41-year-old’s exit from international football does not mark the end of his playing days. He added that he hopes Ronaldo’s eventual full retirement as a player will come on a different kind of day from the one on which he announced his departure from the national team. Ronaldo confirmed his retirement from Portugal duty on Thursday after 23 years, following a period of tension with national team coach Jorge Jesus. Mourinho declined to assess the circumstances of the decision in detail, focusing instead on respect for Ronaldo’s choice and the forward’s remaining ambitions at club level with Al-Nassr. Gilbert Ekugbe Gilbert Ekugbe is a journalist at Punch Newspapers with over a decade of experience reporting on business and economic affairs. He covers markets, corporate developments, finance, and Nigeria’s broader economic landscape. His reporting is informed by extensive newsroom experience and a strong commitment to accuracy and responsible journalism, helping readers understand complex business issues.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
ATTENTION NIGERIANS: You can now comfortably earn US Dollars when you acquire premium domains for as low as $3000 and profit $15,000-$35,000. Ideal for professionals like Entrepreneurs, Doctors, Civil/Public servants, IT Experts, Accountants ETC. CLICK HERE TO START.
Stay informed and ahead of the curve! Follow The Punch Newspaper on WhatsApp for real-time updates, breaking news, and exclusive content. Don't miss a headline – join now!
Stay in the know—fast. Get instant alerts, breaking headlines, and exclusive stories with the Punch News App. Download now and never miss a beat.
