New signings prove Mourinho right

Real Madrid's summer signings Cucurella, Bernardo Silva and Diomande impressed in the Clásico, vindicating Mourinho's backing after previous recruitment missteps.

Real Madrid's summer recruitment has paid off after a disappointing 2024 when signings like Trent Alexander-Arnold, Huijsen and Franco Mastantuono failed to deliver.

The three major summer arrivals—Cucurella, Bernardo Silva and Diomande—all performed at a high level in the Clásico at Camp Nou, one of the season's most challenging fixtures. Cucurella effectively neutralised Lamine Yamal on the left flank, Bernardo Silva controlled the midfield, and Diomande was solid in defence. The display vindicated José Mourinho, who championed these signings.

Other summer additions also impressed: Denzel Dumfries and Carlos Espí have exceeded expectations, with the Valencia-born forward emerging as a key goalscorer. Eduardo Camavinga, who faced an uncertain future over the summer, proved crucial late on with a crucial run and assist for Mbappé's winning goal. Lunin made his seasonal debut in the Clásico and made a crucial save from Gerard Martín that could have changed the match. Only Thiago Pitarch and Raúl Asencio remain without competitive minutes this season.