Jose Mourinho is holding initial discussions with Real Madrid regarding a potential return to the club, according to reports from ESDiario and confirmation from Ramon Alvarez de Mon. The Portuguese manager is the leading candidate to replace current manager Alvaro Arbeloa at the end of the season, with President Florentino Perez reportedly favouring a second stint for Mourinho at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Mourinho recently stated he had not engaged in talks with Real Madrid last Friday, despite still having a year remaining on his contract with Benfica. However, widespread reports suggested his openness to a return, and a video call meeting with club officials took place on Tuesday to outline his conditions.
Mourinho is seeking a two-year contract to avoid being viewed as a short-term solution, and to ensure he has sufficient time to implement his vision. A key demand is complete control over team selection, free from interference from Perez or other club figures – a point of contention during his previous spell. He intends to bring a coaching staff of seven individuals, though Perez has suggested including current manager Arbeloa in the setup.
The potential arrival of Mourinho could see fitness coach Antonio Pintus depart, having returned to the club in January but failing to significantly reduce injury concerns. Mourinho also wants direct communication with the medical staff and wants Florentino Perez to be his sole point of contact, bypassing Advisor Anas Laghrari and General Manager Jose Angel Sanchez. He is also keen to have control over preseason tour schedules, aiming to avoid physically demanding trips to regions like the Middle East or North America.
Furthermore, Mourinho reportedly wants the authority to trim the squad, potentially allowing for the departure of up to seven players he deems insufficient. Several players are already facing uncertain futures, including those out of contract this summer: Antonio Rudiger, David Alaba, and Dani Carvajal. Dani Ceballos is also expected to leave, while the positions of Fran Garcia, Eduardo Camavinga, Franco Mastantuono, Gonzalo Garcia and Raul Asencio are not secure.
This potential appointment could signal a shift in power dynamics at Real Madrid, with Mourinho seeking greater autonomy than he previously enjoyed during his first tenure. A return for the experienced manager could provide stability and a clear tactical direction as the club aims to maintain its dominance in both La Liga and European competitions.
