Another break, another moment of introspection for Mourinho

Mourinho's Real Madrid face another international break after a seven-game winning streak; the fixture list offers home comfort before tougher away tests.

Real Madrid enter another international break on the back of seven consecutive victories, including the Clásico win, a stark contrast to their form before the September pause when they lost to Betis and Atlético Madrid. That earlier break proved beneficial, and now the question is whether this shorter interruption will help or hinder their momentum.

The fixture schedule after the break is mixed. Madrid host three consecutive matches at the Bernabéu against Celta (La Liga), PSV (Champions League), and Deportivo Alavés (La Liga)—opponents they should beat to maintain their upward trajectory. However, the following three games are away from home in difficult venues: Real Sociedad at Anoeta, Athletic Bilbao at San Mamés, and Arsenal at the Emirates.

The main concern is whether players return from international duty fit and uninjured. With a busy calendar and the travel involved in international breaks, injury risk is high, though Madrid's medical situation has improved this season.