Jose Mourinho will return to Real Madrid as manager, replacing Alvaro Arbeloa at the end of the current season. The appointment, reported by Marca and confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, is described as “just a matter of time” and sees Mourinho poised to take charge of the Spanish giants once again.
Romano reports that Mourinho gave his full agreement to Real Madrid last week, and the deal is expected to be finalised imminently. He states that Mourinho was enthusiastic about the prospect of a second spell at the Bernabeu, with no hesitation or complications in initial discussions.
While details are still being finalised, Real Madrid will need to pay a €3 million release fee to Benfica to secure Mourinho’s services. Both club and manager are keen to complete the agreement swiftly, to allow for planning ahead of the summer transfer window and a potential squad overhaul. Mourinho has reportedly demanded significant input into the club’s transfer strategy, with Juventus winger Kenan Yildiz identified as a potential target, according to Italian reports.
Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning the La Liga title in the 2011/12 season. Since then, he has held managerial positions at Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham, Roma, Fenerbahce and most recently, Benfica. Despite this extensive managerial career, his recent successes have been limited, and Florentino Perez’s decision to re-appoint him is viewed by some as a response to a challenging period for the club.
Perez publicly expressed his confidence in Mourinho, stating, “He was here before and he raised our level.” Despite publicly maintaining his focus on Benfica, Mourinho is widely expected to return to the Spanish capital. The appointment represents a significant challenge for the Portuguese coach, as he aims to restore Real Madrid to its former glory and silence any lingering doubts about his capabilities. Sales of players such as Dani Ceballos and Gonzalo Garcia are anticipated to fund potential new signings.
