Real Madrid launched efforts to bring back Jose Mourinho as head coach. The club made direct contacts with the Portuguese manager in recent days.
Real Madrid experienced a difficult 2025-26 season. The team struggled with results and internal issues under current head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, who took over from Xabi Alonso in January 2026. Club president Florentino Perez identified Mourinho as a strong option to stabilize the squad.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that Real Madrid started Operation Jose Mourinho. Direct discussions took place between the club and Mourinho’s camp. Benfica, Mourinho’s current club, wanted the coach to stay but remained aware of the talks. Everything depended on Perez’s final decision.
Mourinho, who previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013 and won the La Liga title in 2012, showed motivation for a return. He had denied any contact with Real Madrid on May 1, when he stated, “No, no one from Real Madrid has spoken to me. I can guarantee that.” Subsequent reports indicated conversations advanced despite the earlier denial.
Sources close to the situation noted that Mourinho set specific conditions for a potential return. Benfica held a contract with the 63-year-old coach until 2027, but a release clause existed. Perez considered a two-year deal that gave Mourinho significant control.
Benfica officials prepared for a possible departure if Real Madrid pushed forward. Mourinho expressed willingness to accept if Perez approved the move.
The development came amid preparations for key matches, including clashes with Barcelona. A return for Mourinho promised experience and tactical discipline to address squad fractures. Real Madrid officials weighed the option carefully as the season concluded.
