Real Madrid ended their pre-season campaign with a convincing victory over Schalke 04, with Kylian Mbappé finding the net on his return to action. José Mourinho was also able to use several of his new signings as the Spanish giants continued their preparations for the new season.
Real Madrid supporters finally had the opportunity to see almost the entire squad in action, including the club’s latest arrivals. Marc Cucurella and Yan Diomande were introduced around the hour mark, while Ibrahima Konaté started in central defence alongside Dean Huijsen.
The Spanish centre-back was one of the standout performers of the opening period and even managed to get his name on the scoresheet.
Mbappé needs only six minutes
Kylian Mbappé wasted no time making his presence felt. Starting the game looking sharp and physically ready, the French superstar needed just six minutes to open the scoring.
Mbappé took advantage of a mistake in Schalke’s defence before calmly finishing the opportunity. It was an encouraging return for the striker, who looked lively in his movements and showed that he is already regaining his rhythm ahead of the competitive campaign.
Real Madrid doubled their advantage in the 20th minute. Arda Güler delivered an excellent ball into the penalty area, where Dean Huijsen was perfectly positioned to finish the move and make it 2-0.
Thibaut Courtois, meanwhile, played his first 45 minutes of pre-season football. The Belgian goalkeeper enjoyed a relatively controlled first half and managed to keep a clean sheet before being replaced at the interval.
Carlos Espí continues to impress
Carlos Espí also continued his excellent start in a Real Madrid shirt. The Spanish striker scored his second goal for the club with a powerful header following a well-delivered cross from Álvaro Carreras.
Espí produced another promising performance and is beginning to give Mourinho an interesting attacking alternative.
Carreras was also impressive throughout the match. His performance once again highlighted the growing competition on the left side of Real Madrid’s team, especially following the arrival of Cucurella.
Vinícius Júnior, however, endured another difficult outing. The Brazilian still looked short of his best physical condition and struggled to consistently beat his opponents or create dangerous situations. It was another frustrating display for the winger.
Brahim Díaz was similarly quiet on the right wing and struggled to significantly influence the match.
Arda Güler shines, Bernardo struggles
QUÉ PASE DE ÁLVARO CARRERAS Y GOLAZO DE CARLOS ESPÍ 😍 pic.twitter.com/SH78TW3i4J
— (fan) REAL MADRID FANS 🤍 (@AdriRM33) August 16, 2026
Arda Güler once again emerged as one of Real Madrid’s most influential players. The Turkish international dictated the tempo, constantly demanded the ball and created danger between the lines. His assist for Huijsen was another example of his growing importance under Mourinho.
In midfield, the Portuguese coach opted for Bernardo Silva and Federico Valverde in a double pivot. Valverde delivered another solid performance, providing intensity and balance in midfield.
Bernardo Silva had a more complicated afternoon. The former Manchester City midfielder lost possession several times and occasionally struggled against Schalke’s pressure.
Eduardo Camavinga, however, made a positive impact after coming on in the second half.
With pre-season now completed, Mourinho has gathered plenty of information about his squad. Mbappé’s immediate goal, Güler’s continued influence and the performances of several new signings provide encouraging signs as Real Madrid prepare to turn their attention towards the competitive season.
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