José Mourinho and Real Madrid reached a full verbal agreement for his return as head coach. Romano stated, “All terms have been verbally agreed between José Mourinho and Real Madrid, waiting to sign all documents. Plan for initial two year deal, JM to travel to Madrid after Real-Bilbao game.”
German reporter Florian Plettenberg corroborated the story, calling it a “DONE DEAL” with a contract planned at least until 2028.
Mourinho himself addressed the growing speculation after Benfica’s 3-1 win over Estoril. He acknowledged indirect contact, saying, “I’m not stupid… and there are contacts between the club and Jorge. And I believe they will turn into contacts with me during the next week.”
However, he insisted no direct talks occurred. “There’s no signed contract, no contract on the table, no talks between the Real Madrid president and me, nor talks between anyone important in the club’s structure and me,” he explained.
Club president Florentino Pérez pursued Mourinho after a season of instability. Real Madrid went two consecutive campaigns without a major trophy, and current boss Álvaro Arbeloa struggled to command the dressing room after replacing Xabi Alonso in January.
Pérez previously backed the move, stating, “He was here before and he raised our level.” Meanwhile Mourinho emerged as the only candidate who held formal talks with the club.
The Portuguese coach’s existing contract with Benfica included a €3 million release clause, which Real Madrid prepared to activate. His travel to the Spanish capital was scheduled for after the final match of the season against Athletic Bilbao, where he was expected to sign the formal contract.
The deal marked a dramatic return for the 63-year-old, 13 years after his first spell in which he delivered a record-breaking La Liga title.
