5 matches that will determine Mourinho's future project with Real Madrid

José Mourinho returns with Real Madrid from the international break to a series of challenging matches that will put his project to a real test over 16 days, starting with a clash against Villarreal and culminating in the clásico against FC Barcelona.

Real Madrid are preparing to face Villarreal on October 10 at the Santiago Bernabéu, followed by a visit to Roma in the UEFA Champions League on October 14. They will then host Sevilla on October 18, face RB Leipzig on October 21, before concluding this series with a visit to FC Barcelona on October 25.

These matches come after a start that saw Real Madrid lose to Real Betis 1-0 and Atlético 2-1, alongside the team's struggle to win against Elche 3-2, finishing the first phase of LaLiga in fourth place with 15 points out of 21, six points behind leaders FC Barcelona.

Recent times have revealed several issues that need solutions, particularly the team's need for more control in midfield, the decline in Vinícius's form, and the heavy reliance on Kylian Mbappé for attacking strength. Additionally, there is a necessity to find harmony among the new players.

Mourinho will have the task of managing a congested fixture list, especially with the matches against Roma and RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League sandwiched between three tough games in LaLiga.

The upcoming clásico in Barcelona will hold special significance as it will be José Mourinho's first test against the traditional rival. This series will also reveal more clearly whether the issues that emerged in September are linked to the start of the season or if they require larger changes within the team.

After weeks of focus on refereeing, statements, and controversy with Javier Tebas, Real Madrid will shift its attention back to the pitch at the start of October, where Mourinho will need to find solutions during a busy period that does not give the team much room to breathe.