Real Madrid Must Pay €15 Million to Bring Mourinho Back from Benfica
Portuguese club Benfica have confirmed that Real Madrid will need to pay €15 million to activate José Mourinho's release clause if they want to bring him back to the Santiago Bernabéu. Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has reportedly informed Benfica of his intention to appoint Mourinho.
Mourinho, who guided Benfica through an unbeaten league campaign after joining in September 2025.
With the possibility of a sensational return to Real Madrid, Jose Mourinho has become the center of attention after Benfica confirmed that any club wishing to sign him must pay his €15 million release clause. The Portuguese giants revealed that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez had informed them of his firm intention to bring Mourinho back to the Santiago Bernabeu, ending speculation that the move could be completed for a much lower fee of around €3 million.
Mourinho has already hinted at his willingness to return, appearing in a social media video alongside Perez. The veteran coach previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning 1 La Liga title, 1 Copa del Rey, and 1 Spanish Super Cup during his successful spell in Spain. Real Madrid are reportedly considering the move after finishing without a major trophy for the second consecutive season. Perez is said to view Mourinho as the ideal figure to restore discipline and authority in a dressing room that has reportedly become divided.
The Portuguese coach joined Benfica in September 2025 and enjoyed an impressive campaign. His side completed the league season unbeaten, although they ultimately finished third in the standings. Mourinho still has 1 year remaining on his current contract with Benfica, meaning Real Madrid would need to trigger the full release clause if they want to secure his services ahead of the new season.