Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has seemingly confirmed the return of José Mourinho to the club via a video posted on social media, though questions have arisen regarding the authenticity of the announcement. The video, released on Wednesday, depicts Mourinho, currently under contract with Benfica, wearing a Real Madrid jersey.
However, according to Portuguese publication Record, Mourinho has reportedly informed Benfica officials that he did not participate in filming the video. This has led to speculation that artificial intelligence was used to create the announcement as part of Pérez’s re-election campaign, as he is currently competing against Enrique Riquelme for the presidency of the club.
Pérez is reportedly leveraging the prospect of Mourinho’s return as a key pledge to voters. Riquelme, in turn, has been making his own promises, including the potential signing of Erling Haaland should he win the election. The situation has escalated into what some are calling a “battle of carpet salesmen,” with both candidates attempting to outdo each other with ambitious claims.
Further reports suggest that Robert Moreno could be added to Mourinho’s staff should the Portuguese manager return to the Santiago Bernabéu. Manchester City is also reportedly threatening legal action against Pérez’s campaign, though details of the dispute remain unclear. Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning a La Liga title and a Copa del Rey during his tenure. He left under somewhat strained circumstances, and a return would mark a significant moment for both the manager and the club.
The use of AI in this manner raises questions about the ethics of political campaigning in football, and the potential for misinformation. Should Mourinho officially return, it would represent a major coup for Pérez and signal a return to a more pragmatic and experienced managerial approach for Real Madrid.
