Mourinho's team "almost complete"

Posted Monday, August 06, 2012 by ESPN

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho admits his project is almost complete as he looks to usher in a new era of dominance in world football.

The Portuguese tactician was appointed to the role at the Bernabeu in May 2010 following highly successful spells at Porto, Chelsea and then most recently Inter Milan.

Mourinho was tasked with breaking Madrid's arch rival Barcelona's run of trophies and last season the former Blues boss took home the plaudits as his Real side pipped the Catalans to La Liga.

The Spanish champions are now considered favourites to retain the Spanish title in the coming season and are also strong contenders to land Europe's top prize - the UEFA Champions League.

And so far, things are going to plan. Following Real's 5-1 exhibition win over the LA Galaxy last week, Mourinho's side have scored 12 times in their first three pre-season fixtures. This is the best start since 2002, when a team spearheaded by legendary names such as Zidane and Figo scored 14 goals in their first three warm-up games.

"My team's motivation when faced with new challenges never ceases to surprise me", Mourinho told American news channel Fox.

"We are hard at work preparing because we are well aware of the fact that it is not going to be easy, quite the contrary.

"The team is almost complete. They are special players, we have a lot of the best players in the world and my team's motivation when faced with new challenges never ceases to surprise me.

"I give my team a 10 for its motivation as well".

Real are currently in Las Vegas where they will go up against Santos Laguna in the Sam Boyd Stadium later on Monday.