José Mourinho appeared in the press room at Real Madrid City and analysed the derby on matchday seven of La Liga, which will be played at the Metropolitano (Sunday, 4.15 pm; Orange TV and Dazn): “A derby always has that extra something. Derbies are about history, culture, and the passion of the fans, players and managers. Even though some may not have had much of a connection with the clubs over the years, they understand what it means. It’s a league match, worth three points, and it has to be viewed with this pragmatism: that it’s three points that are at stake.”

Avoiding a dip in form

“I don’t know if I’ll manage it. That’s my intention, and the players’ too. We’ve tried to find a way to work on the areas we need to improve, and this is a process. If there are people who have been coaching their clubs for ten years running, they always talk about process, development and working to improve. Imagine we’ve only been together for a few months and we need to improve. We worked hard yesterday and we’re doing the same today, because there are things we need to improve on and we have a lot of confidence in ourselves. But we’re also humble enough to recognise that we need to work to improve.”

What did I want to say the other day about the penalty?

“It’s too late now. After that matchday we had another one, and on that matchday there were more questions you could have asked me. I’d rather say that, although it’s a bit strange, a week ago we already knew who it would be for tomorrow’s match. If he’s been appointed, it’s because he has the quality and experience needed for a match like this. He has my full confidence ahead of the match; as for afterwards, we’ll see.”

Speaking after Simeone

“I didn’t even know what time Simeone’s press conference was. After training, I sprinted out to try and get the best view of the Bernabéu, but why would it be an advantage to speak after Simeone?”

Does a derby or a Clásico motivate you more?

“I’m motivated every single day. I understand you’re asking this with respect, and I want to answer you in the same spirit. My career will always be the same. It’s not the length of my career that changes who I am or how I behave. I’m just as motivated to play against Villarreal as I am for a Clásico or a derby. Clásicos and derbies are part of our culture. But when it comes to motivation, my motivation is there every single day.”