Mourinho Allows Real Madrid Players Week Off During Break

José Mourinho, the manager of Real Madrid, has granted a full week off to players not selected for their national teams during the international break from September 21 to October 6, 2026. This decision, reported by football transfer expert Santi Aouna, comes as 16 Real Madrid players have been called up for international duty, leaving Mourinho with only about seven first-team players available for training at the club's facility in Valdebebas.

Notably, goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois chose to stay in Madrid to focus on his recovery instead of joining the Belgium national team, while Andriy Lunin, not selected by Ukraine, is also expected to remain with the club. Mourinho has previously expressed concerns about the impact of the lengthy international window on players' rhythm and the potential for injuries upon their return.

The week off for non-international players is part of the club's strategy to manage the unusual international calendar and prepare for the demanding schedule of La Liga and UEFA Champions League fixtures that will follow.