Jose Mourinho utilizes winter break to personally scout RB Leipzig
All eyes were on the Allianz Arena for the Bundesliga top of the table clash between RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich last Sunday. One such pair belonged to Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho. (h/t Sky Sports)
The Portuguese watched on from the stands as the German table-toppers played out an entertaining 0-0 draw. The purpose of this surprise sojourn is the Spurs boss’ eye for detail.
The Spurs boss decided to personally scout Tottenham’s opponents in the UEFA Champions League round of 16, RB Leipzig. By observing them personally, Mourinho got to observe the minute details of Leipzig’s pre-match warm-up and the players’ capabilities.
From his vantage point, Mourinho will also no doubt have observed the tactical layout of Julian Nagelsmann that has contributed to the Die Roen Bullen’s impressive title charge.
“Some skills that sometimes during the game are hidden. It’s a different intensity. It’s a different experience. I couldn’t miss the opportunity.”
Mourinho later stated that although he is glad about the winter break, he does not personally need one.
Shackling the rival ace?
By being at the game, Mourinho will also have had the opportunity to look at Leipzig’s star striker Timo Werner. The 23-year-old has taken the Bundesliga by storm this season and has spearheaded his team’s title charge.
Werner has scored 20 goals and provided six assists in the league this season. This accounts for an impressive goal contribution of roughly 50% of Leipzig’s goals in the league.
Tottenham have struggled to maintain clean sheets this season and how the Champions League turns out will depend on how well the Spurs backline can handle the German ace.
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It was a journey well made for Mourinho, who witnessed Leipzig give powerhouse Bayern Munich a serious run for their money. The takeaways from the game, no matter how minute, could help turn the tie in Tottenham’s favour.
