Jose Mourinho has spoken publicly for the first time since making his return to Real Madrid, addressing past controversy surrounding Vinicius Junior and discussing why midfield star Rodri chose to join rivals Barcelona instead of moving to the Santiago Bernabeu.

Mourinho, who returned to the Spanish capital 13 years after his initial turbulent spell between 2010 and 2013, was announced on June 11 after Florentino Perez won re-election as club president. Despite taking over pre-season duties in July, the Portuguese tactician had not taken part in a traditional presentation or press conference until breaking his silence in an interview with Josep Pedrerol on El Chiringuito de Jugones.

Clearing the Air with Vinicius Junior

Mourinho addressed previous comments made back in February during a Champions League clash between Real Madrid and his former club Benfica. That match was halted when Vinicius Junior alleged he was abused by winger Gianluca Prestianni, who was subsequently banned by UEFA and FIFA after admitting to using a homophobic slur. At the time, Mourinho had suggested the Brazilian winger provoked opposition reactions.

Defending his stance, Mourinho explained his perspective while reassuring Vinicius of his unwavering support now that they are on the same side.

“The answer is very simple,” Mourinho said. “Prestianni was my player. That’s it, there’s no discussion. If Prestianni is my player… 20 players can come, I’m with Prestianni, there’s nothing more to it. Vini knows that now, he knows which side I’m on and he knows that he can look at me and count on me to stand by him.

“The other day, when they didn’t give him a clear penalty, I was already in the middle of the pitch fighting for him. He knows I’m going to be with him. People need to learn how to behave towards him, and I’m also talking about referees. You can’t blow for a penalty because it’s Pedrerol, and not give a penalty because it’s Vinicius.”

Vinicius Junior, who recently signed a new contract extension at Madrid, is understood to maintain a positive working relationship with Mourinho despite differing perspectives on past events.

Rodri’s Barcelona Move and Squad Satisfaction

Mourinho also shed light on Real Madrid’s pursuit of Spain captain Rodri, who opted to complete a move to Barcelona.

“Rodri’s doubts created doubts in me,” Mourinho revealed. “He is an extraordinary player and was very correct with us, but Madrid is a club of such a dimension that you can’t think twice. I’m not saying there won’t be more signings because the market is open, but as far as I’m concerned, it’s closed. I really like the squad. I don’t miss Rodri.”

Real Madrid have experienced a busy summer window, recruiting Denzel Dumfries, Ibrahima Konate, Marc Cucurella, Bernardo Silva, Yan Diomande, and Carlos Espi as Mourinho prepares to launch their La Liga campaign away at Espanyol.