Does Jose Mourinho still have what it takes to win the Champions League?

Los Blancos have an unbreakable bond with the competition, having triumphed 15 times, but are thirsty for more after successive quarter-final exits.

The Spanish giants have a squad brimming with Galácticos as they strive to conquer Europe once more and are among the favourites for the tournament.

Mourinho has lifted the Champions League twice in his career with FC Porto and Inter Milan, Real's first opponents, but failed to triumph during his previous three-year spell at the Bernabéu.

As the Portuguese prepares for a romantic opening tie, can he roll back the years and restamp the 15-time champions' name on the trophy?

Real Madrid take on Inter in the José Mourinho derby

Football has a habit of providing perfect storylines, and Real Madrid's opening clash with Inter Milan is understandably the main plot.

The clash not only marks a meeting between two European heavyweights, but it also pits Mourinho against his former employer, where he delivered the ultimate prize.

During his two-year stint with the Serie A side, the 63-year-old won four trophies, including the treble in his second term, including the Champions League.

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That success prompted Real Madrid to make a move for Mourinho, and while he did lead Los Blancos to three major trophies, he was unable to replicate his success in Italy.

Since leaving the Bernabéu in 2013, the Portuguese has not tasted the same success as he did in his early career, but now has the ideal opportunity to bolster his reputation.

Given that Real are at home and possess a star-studded squad, they are favourites to take three points, but do not underestimate the Serie A champions who have started the season strongly.

Can Mourinho land third Champions League?

While there is no doubting Los Blancos' quality, there are several factors that stand in their way of landing a 16th title and Mourinho's first in the Spanish capital.

The first is the pressure, as not only are Real expected to win trophies every season, but they are also expected to triumph in Europe, where they have been so dominant.

Of course, the Spanish outfit are full of winners at club and international level, and while there are not many managers with more accolades than Mourinho, this has been an underperforming side of late.

Mourinho was a surprise appointment for some, but the club have required someone who can handle the dressing room egos and what better person than the ego himself.

Another hurdle is the strength of several clubs across Europe this season, with PSG expected to continue their dominance, while Arsenal and Barcelona look stronger.

Los Blancos have already blinked this season after a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis in La Liga, and although it is early days, the last thing the club needs is an opening-day Champions League defeat.

Mourinho has the chance to further etch his name into the record books, and if he does succeed, then this would be one of his finest achievements.

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