Training Intensity Ramps Up: On July 18, 2026, Mourinho's available squad—without players still involved in the World Cup—completed gym work, pitch drills (rondos, passing sequences, sprints), and a practice match at Ciudad Real Madrid. [Read more →](https://www.realmadrid.com?ref=yanuki.com)
Hypoxia Masks Return: Antonio Pintus, Mourinho's veteran fitness coach, brought back the 'Training Mask' technology on July 14. These masks regulate oxygen intake, simulating altitudes between 910 and 5,500 meters, allowing individualized fitness assessments and high-altitude conditioning. [Source →](https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid/2026/07/14/real-madrid-mascaras-hipoxia-valdebebas.html?ref=yanuki.com)
Why This Matters: This data-driven approach gives Pintus precise metrics on each player's aerobic capacity, power, and thresholds—essentially a real-time stress test on the pitch rather than in a lab. It helps tailor recovery and training loads, reducing injury risks during the demanding season ahead.
Alexander-Arnold's Comeback: The 27-year-old English right-back, who arrived from Liverpool last year, struggled with injuries and inconsistent minutes. With Dani Carvajal's departure in May 2026, the starting right-back spot is now his to claim. [Source →](https://www.reforma.com/cancha/2026/07/17/alexander-arnold-esta-encantado-de-trabajar-con-mourinho.html?ref=yanuki.com)
Mourinho's Second Stint: After a disappointing 2025/26 campaign without a LaLiga title and a Champions League quarter-final exit, Mourinho returned in June 2026 on a contract until 2029, bringing his trademark intensity and high standards.
Antonio Pintus, the legendary Italian fitness coach, has been a cornerstone of Real Madrid's physical preparation for years. His use of hypoxia training masks is a method he has refined over time, combining simulated altitude exposure with position-specific drills. The masks feature interchangeable valves that restrict oxygen intake, creating a controlled hypoxic environment that forces the cardiovascular system to adapt.
The Science Behind It: While the academic community remains divided—some studies from the *Journal of Sports Sciences* question significant pulmonary benefits, while others suggest improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness during HIIT protocols—Pintus is a firm believer. His track record at Madrid speaks for itself, with players often reaching peak physical condition during the most critical stretches of the season.
This year, Pintus has a new partner: Antonio Dias, a physiology specialist brought in by Mourinho from Benfica to further elevate the athletic department. The duo represents a heavy-hitting tandem designed to give Madrid a physical edge both domestically and in Europe.
Defenders Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and forward Rodrygo continue their individual recovery processes, missing the early sessions. Their gradual reintegration will be carefully managed using the data gathered from Pintus's assessments.
Trent Alexander-Arnold's first season at Madrid was plagued by injuries and inconsistent selection. However, speaking to the press on July 17, the England international struck a confident tone: *"I've been out for a long time, so it's good to finally be back and build a solid foundation for a successful season."*
His admiration for Mourinho is clear: *"He's intense. The principles and the level of demand are very high... I'm sure he will teach us many things and help us win trophies this year."*
With Carvajal's exit, the right-back position is wide open—and Alexander-Arnold's attacking creativity from deep could be a key weapon in Mourinho's system.
What are hypoxia training masks and how do they work?
Hypoxia masks (Training Mask) are wearable devices that restrict oxygen intake through adjustable valves, simulating altitudes between 910 and 5,500 meters. This creates a controlled low-oxygen environment, forcing the body to adapt and improve cardiovascular efficiency. Real Madrid's fitness coach Antonio Pintus uses them to assess each player's aerobic capacity and tailor individual training plans.
When does Real Madrid's 2026/27 LaLiga season start?
Real Madrid kicks off their LaLiga campaign against Espanyol on August 22, 2026.
Why did Mourinho return to Real Madrid?
Mourinho returned in June 2026 after a disappointing 2025/26 season where Madrid failed to win LaLiga and were eliminated in the Champions League quarter-finals. He signed a contract until 2029 to lead a new project.
Which key players are currently recovering from injury?
Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy, and Rodrygo are all continuing their recovery processes and were not involved in the early pre-season training sessions.
How does this affect Alexander-Arnold's role?
With Dani Carvajal leaving the club in May 2026, the right-back position is now Alexander-Arnold's to secure as a starter. After an injury-hit first season, he is fully fit and motivated to establish himself under Mourinho.
For Real Madrid Fans: The early signs are promising—Mourinho's intensity is already setting the tone, and Pintus's data-driven fitness approach could mean fewer injuries during the season.
How to Prepare as a Fan: Follow the club's official channels ([Real Madrid](https://www.realmadrid.com?ref=yanuki.com) and [Marca](https://www.marca.com/futbol/real-madrid.html?ref=yanuki.com)) for daily training updates. The clash against Espanyol on August 22 will be the first real test of the new system.
Who This Affects Most: Supporters of LaLiga and Champions League football should watch closely—Madrid's physical reinvention under Mourinho could reshape the competitive landscape in Spain and Europe.
Historical Context: Mourinho's first stint at Madrid (2010–2013) delivered a record-breaking LaLiga title in 2011/12 with 100 points. His return signals an ambition to replicate that dominance while adapting to modern football's demands.
Do you think Mourinho can lead Real Madrid back to LaLiga and Champions League glory this season? Will the hypoxia training method give the squad a decisive edge? Share your thoughts below!
Share this article with fellow Madridistas who need to stay ahead of the 2026/27 season trends!
*Content compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data.*
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