Mourinho Emerges as Leading Candidate for Real Madrid Return
Florentino Perez is pushing to bring back Jose Mourinho as Real Madrid’s next coach, replacing Alvaro Arbeloa. Mourinho, under contract at Benfica until 2027 with a €3 million exit clause, remains a divisive but successful option after Madrid’s trophyless run, despite internal disagreements.
After the growing uncertainty around Real Madrid’s future, club president Florentino Perez has identified Jose Mourinho as his preferred choice to replace Alvaro Arbeloa at the end of the season. Arbeloa, who took charge in January after Xabi Alonso was dismissed, is now expected to leave following a disappointing campaign with no major trophies.
The decision is being led directly by Perez, marking a shift from previous managerial appointments where other executives played a larger role. Madrid are on course to finish a second straight season without winning La Liga, the UEFA Champions League, or the Copa del Rey, prompting the need for a rebuild.
Mourinho, currently managing Benfica until June 2027, has a release clause of around €3 million. His previous spell at Madrid from 2010 to 2013 brought 3 trophies, including a record-breaking league title in 2012. However, his possible return divides opinion due to past dressing room tensions and recent controversies. Other candidates such as Mauricio Pochettino, Didier Deschamps, and Jurgen Klopp have also been considered internally.