Real Madrid’s Spanish striker is already turning heads at the start of the season. After impressing during pre-season, Carlos Espí scored the decisive goal in the victory over Espanyol Barcelona and is quickly becoming one of José Mourinho’s most intriguing attacking options.
Carlos Espí could hardly have dreamed of a better start to life with Real Madrid. After scoring twice during pre-season, the Spanish forward wasted no time making an impact when competitive football returned. Against Espanyol Barcelona, Espí came off the bench and scored the crucial late goal that secured three precious points for Los Blancos.
It was the perfect introduction to La Liga for the young striker and further evidence that he could have an important role to play throughout the season. José Mourinho has already shown that he appreciates Espí’s profile, particularly his physical presence, movement inside the penalty area and ability to make an immediate impact from the bench.
The Portuguese coach now has a different type of attacking weapon at his disposal. Espí may not necessarily start every game, especially considering the competition within Real Madrid’s squad, but his characteristics could make him extremely useful when the team needs a goal late in matches.
There is also an interesting story developing away from the pitch. Carlos Espí, Marc Cucurella, José Mourinho and several members of the Portuguese coach’s staff are currently living at Real Madrid’s training complex. That unusual situation appears to be helping build strong relationships between the striker and his manager.
The connection between Mourinho and Espí was clearly visible after the final whistle against Espanyol. The coach celebrated warmly with his match-winner, producing images that highlighted the growing bond between them.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, Mourinho praised the striker’s attitude and mentality. He described Espí as a player who is living a dream but, importantly, is not behaving as though he has already reached the top.
“He’s living a dream, but he doesn’t work as if he’s on the moon. He’s charming,” Mourinho explained.
The Real Madrid dressing room appears to share the manager’s enthusiasm.
After the game, Jude Bellingham and Thibaut Courtois both delivered glowing assessments of their new teammate. Courtois, in particular, highlighted Espí’s qualities and revealed the nickname that has already started following the Spanish striker around Valdebebas.
El abrazo entre MOURINHO y CARLOS ESPÍ 🤍
— Madrid Sports (@MadridSports_) August 23, 2026
Qué caras de felicidadpic.twitter.com/m1lySD65bq
“He’s a beast. He has talent. I call him Joselu Junior,” the Belgian goalkeeper said.
It is a comparison that carries plenty of positive meaning at Real Madrid. Joselu became a fan favourite because of his professionalism, aerial strength and, above all, his ability to score important goals when the team needed him most.
Bellingham, who also found the net against Espanyol, agreed with Courtois’ assessment and praised Espí’s immediate contribution.
For Carlos Espí, the beginning could hardly have been better: goals in pre-season, a decisive strike on his La Liga debut and the confidence of Mourinho and several dressing-room leaders.
The season has only just begun, but Real Madrid may already have discovered a new super-sub capable of producing decisive moments when the pressure is at its highest.
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