Real Madrid manager, José Mourinho, has urged tennis fans who support Rafael Nadal not to withdraw their affection for the former world number one following his proposed appointment to the Spanish club’s board of directors.

Mr Mourinho made the appeal after Real Madrid’s 3-2 Champions League victory over AEK Athens, describing Nadal’s proposed involvement in the club’s administration as exciting news.

Reacting to the development, the Portuguese manager congratulated both the club and the tennis legend, saying he was proud to have the 22-time Grand Slam champion associated with Real Madrid.

“I hope the fans who support him do not stop supporting him just because he is now a Real Madrid member,” Mourinho said.

Nadal set for Real Madrid board

Nadal, a lifelong Real Madrid supporter and honorary member of the club, is expected to join its board of directors, subject to ratification at the General Assembly of Delegate Members scheduled for 21 November.

The club’s board has approved the proposal to appoint the retired tennis star, who accepted an invitation from Real Madrid president, Florentino Pérez.

Nadal retired from professional tennis in November 2024 after an illustrious career that included 22 Grand Slam titles, 92 singles titles, two Olympic gold medals and five Davis Cup victories with Spain.

Mourinho praises squad depth

During the same press conference, Mourinho also discussed his squad options, particularly the challenge of managing several quality players who cannot feature in every match.

He singled out Brazilian forward Endrick, describing his ability to trouble tired defenders when introduced as a substitute as a major advantage for the team.

The manager said the depth of his squad gives him several options during matches, although he acknowledged the difficulty of ensuring that every player gets sufficient playing time.