José Mourinho's second stint as Real Madrid manager began on a winning note, though it took a late intervention to seal the result. New signing Carlos Espí struck in the 90th minute to hand Madrid a 2-1 victory away at Espanyol in La Liga.

The result ensured Mourinho's return to the Santiago Bernabéu dugout — one of the most high-profile managerial comebacks in recent memory — started with three points on the board rather than an embarrassing stumble.

Espí, making an immediate impact after joining the club, proved the difference with a goal that rescued what could have been a difficult opening afternoon for the returning coach.