Former Real Madrid manager José Mourinho is reportedly in advanced talks over a sensational return to the Spanish giants, more than a decade after leaving the Santiago Bernabéu.
The Portuguese tactician has emerged as the leading candidate to take charge of Real Madrid following a disappointing 2025–26 campaign that saw the club finish without a major trophy.
Reports from Spain indicate that negotiations between Mourinho and club president Florentino Pérez have intensified in recent days after Madrid’s 2–0 defeat to rivals FC Barcelona in El Clásico, a result that confirmed Barcelona as La Liga champions.
The loss reportedly deepened concerns within the Madrid hierarchy over the direction of the team under current coach Álvaro Arbeloa, who took over earlier this year following the departure of Xabi Alonso.
Sources close to the negotiations claim Mourinho is now the preferred option to lead a rebuilding project aimed at restoring the club’s dominance both domestically and in Europe.
The 63-year-old is currently in charge of SL Benfica, where he has overseen a strong league campaign. However, uncertainty surrounding Benfica’s European qualification prospects has fueled speculation that Mourinho could be preparing for a return to Spain.
Spanish media reports suggest Real Madrid may activate a release clause believed to be worth around €3 million to secure his services before the start of the 2026–27 season.
During his first spell at Madrid between 2010 and 2013, Mourinho won the La Liga title, Copa del Rey, and Supercopa de España. His 2011–12 side famously amassed 100 league points, setting a record at the time.
Despite his success, Mourinho’s first tenure was also marked by intense controversy and dressing-room tensions, particularly involving club legends such as Iker Casillas.
Casillas has reportedly expressed reservations about Mourinho’s possible return, reflecting concerns among sections of the fanbase over the manager’s confrontational style and demanding approach.
Nevertheless, supporters of the move believe Mourinho’s experience, authority, and winning mentality could help stabilize a squad that has struggled for consistency over the past two seasons.
Reports also indicate that Mourinho has already outlined key transfer demands, including the possible signing of young Benfica defender António Silva as part of a defensive rebuild.
While neither Mourinho nor Real Madrid has officially confirmed the negotiations, speculation continues to grow that an announcement could arrive shortly after Benfica’s final league fixture of the season.
If completed, the appointment would mark one of the most dramatic managerial returns in modern European football, bringing one of the game’s most decorated and polarizing figures back to the Bernabéu spotlight.
