José Mourinho is set to return to Real Madrid as manager following the re-election of Florentino Pérez as club president until 2030. The Portuguese manager, currently at Benfica, will join the Spanish giants after Pérez secured another term in office.
Benfica have already announced that Real Madrid will pay the €15 million release clause to secure Mourinho’s services, releasing him from the final year of his contract with the Portuguese club. The agreement appears to be fully in place for the 'Special One' to make his return to the Santiago Bernabéu.
Mourinho himself publicly acknowledged Pérez’s victory in an online video released by the president’s campaign team. When asked directly if Pérez had won the election, Mourinho responded affirmatively, stating “yes, of course.” Reports suggest Mourinho could be officially presented as the new Real Madrid manager as early as Monday.
This marks a return to a club where Mourinho previously enjoyed a successful, albeit often turbulent, spell between 2010 and 2013. During his first stint, he led Real Madrid to a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Super Cup, challenging Barcelona’s dominance under Pep Guardiola. He left the club under somewhat strained circumstances, however, with reports of dressing room issues and disagreements with club hierarchy.
Mourinho joined Benfica in September 2025, guiding them to a period of domestic success. Prior to Benfica, he managed Fenerbahçe and Chelsea, adding to a decorated managerial career that includes Champions League titles with Porto and Inter Milan. The move to Real Madrid represents a significant opportunity for Mourinho to once again compete at the highest level of European football and add to his trophy cabinet. This appointment signals Pérez’s ambition to restore Real Madrid to the pinnacle of the game, and Mourinho’s experience and tactical acumen will be crucial in achieving that goal.
