Former Manchester United player Quinton Fortune has warned Barcelona manager Hansi Flick about the challenge José Mourinho could pose during the 2026/27 season.
Mourinho is preparing for his first season as Real Madrid manager after being appointed by the Spanish giants this summer.
Fortune believes Flick must be careful not to fall into Mourinho’s psychological tactics during the El Clásico meetings between Barcelona and Real Madrid.
“Hansi Flick is a calm character, and I think he already knows what’s coming now that José Mourinho is back at Real Madrid. If he allows Mourinho to get into his head, then it’s done. It’s over. If Mourinho can find a way in, you’re finished,” Fortune told Tribal Football.
He added that Mourinho is one of the best managers when it comes to mind games and has enough quality in his squad to challenge Barcelona on the pitch.
“Flick is undoubtedly a skilled manager, but Mourinho is among the best when it comes to psychological warfare. He also possesses sufficient talent within his squad to challenge Barcelona effectively on the field.
“Mourinho will strive to divert attention away from his players while attempting to unsettle Barcelona, creating distractions and placing all the pressure on Flick and his team. This will be a significant test for them.”
Flick has enjoyed a successful spell at Barcelona since taking charge in 2024. He has also dominated the El Clásico, winning six of his seven meetings with Real Madrid across all competitions.
Mourinho will now look to change the balance of the rivalry and help Real Madrid regain control after Barcelona won LaLiga in the past two seasons.
