Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has identified Jose Mourinho as his primary target to lead the club’s next chapter, potentially signaling a dramatic return for the special one.
The managerial seat at the Santiago Bernabeu has become a revolving door recently. There has been so many names being linked with taking over the managerial position which is expected to be vacant.
Alvaro Arbeloa, who was promoted from the reserve ranks in January to succeed the dismissed Xabi Alonso, is widely expected to be relieved of his duties once the current campaign concludes.
Perez believes Mourinho is the right personality to overhaul a squad that has lost its competitive edge since Carlo Ancelotti left to become Brazil national team manager.
A second stint would look to replicate the success of their 2010–2013 partnership, which yielded the League title win with 100 points alongside the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de España.
While 63-year-old famously never captured the Champions League with Madrid, his pedigree in the competition is massive having won it with both Porto and Inter Milan.
Despite Perez’s backing, a Mourinho return is not universally welcomed within the club. Critics point to his divisive final months in Madrid, specifically his fractured relationship with club legend Iker Casillas.
Furthermore, the Portuguese coach has faced recent scrutiny regarding an incident on February 17 during a Champions League clash between his current side, Benfica, and Real Madrid.
After Vinicius Junior accused Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni of racial abuse, Mourinho drew fire for suggesting the Brazilian forward had incited the situation.
Jose is currently under contract with Benfica until June 2027. However, a specific break clause exists in his agreement states an exit fee of €3 million will be valid for up to 10 days after the season’s final match.
While the current Benfica manager is the frontrunner, the club has explored other elite options to replace Arbeloa who is expected to leave.
Mauricio Pochettino is one of those names on Madrid’s radar as they intend to sign a proven manager who can lead their team for next season and the future.
Didier Deschamps is another name who has been discussed internally by the club who see the World Cup winner as a potential candidate.
Jurgen Klopp has been a long-term favorite of the hierarchy, though he remains committed to his role as Red Bull’s Global Head of Soccer despite strong links.
Real Madrid’s recent history favors familiar faces should Mourinho return, he would join Zinedine Zidane and Carlo Ancelotti as managers who were brought back for a second spell to restore the club’s glory.
