Real Madrid once again showed defensive concerns in its 2-2 draw against Fiorentina in the club's second preseason friendly. While the result itself was not the main takeaway, the match once again highlighted that the back line remains one of José Mourinho's biggest concerns as he continues to push for another defensive signing.

According to a report from Marca, the Portuguese manager remains determined to bring in a top-quality center back before the transfer window closes, a request that has become even more urgent due to the growing list of defensive injuries.

A Defense Hit by Injuries

The situation facing Mourinho is far from ideal.

For the match against Fiorentina, Dean Huijsen was unavailable because of a minor physical issue. He joins Raúl Asencio, who is expected to miss several weeks after suffering a rectus femoris injury.

Meanwhile, Antonio Rüdiger is still working his way back to full fitness, while Éder Militão remains in the middle of a lengthy rehabilitation process and is still months away from returning to competitive action.

To make matters even more complicated, summer signing Ibrahima Konaté is still on vacation following his participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, meaning he has yet to fully join preseason preparations with the rest of the squad.

With so many absences, Mourinho has been forced to rely on the club's academy, using youngsters Lamini Fati and Joan Martínez as his temporary center-back pairing during preseason.

Mourinho Has Not Changed His Mind

Since taking charge of Real Madrid, José Mourinho has repeatedly insisted that the squad needs defensive reinforcements.

Last season, the Spanish giants struggled with injuries and a lack of consistency at the back, issues that ultimately affected the team's overall performances. So far, those concerns have not disappeared.

The draw against Fiorentina reinforced that impression. Although Real Madrid enjoyed positive moments in possession, the team also left too many spaces defensively and allowed several dangerous opportunities, exposing the lack of continuity among the available defenders.

For the Portuguese manager, signing another center back would not only help cover the current injuries but also increase competition within the squad and provide greater depth for a season in which Real Madrid will once again compete for every major trophy.

A Departure May Be Required First

According to the same report from Marca, any new defensive signing would depend on Real Madrid first creating room within the squad.

In that scenario, Raúl Asencio has reportedly emerged as the leading candidate to leave the club despite currently recovering from injury.

At the moment, there are no advanced negotiations or a specific target identified, but José Mourinho's position remains clear. The Portuguese coach believes the squad needs another center back to successfully compete in LaLiga, the UEFA Champions League, and every other competition this season.

Following the draw against Fiorentina, that message appears stronger than ever: Real Madrid is still searching for defensive solutions, and if market conditions allow it, signing another center back remains one of the club's top priorities.

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