Overview
- Real Madrid completed the signing of Spain left-back Marc Cucurella from Chelsea on a six-year deal reported at about €60 million, with the club presenting him on Aug. 24.
- José Mourinho, back as manager, oversaw a second consecutive league win on Wednesday as Kylian Mbappé scored a hat-trick in a 4–1 home victory over Real Sociedad.
- Mourinho named a side featuring multiple new arrivals and World Cup winners, reflecting the club’s push to refresh the squad after a trophyless previous season.
- The team continues to cope with a long injury list that Mourinho confirmed includes Éder Militão, Ferland Mendy and Rodrygo as long-term absences, forcing use of new signings and academy players.
- The result gives Real Madrid early-season momentum but raises questions about defensive cohesion and squad depth as fixtures tighten after the World Cup break.