Could José Mourinho return to manage Real Madrid 13 years after his departure? The scenario, long considered improbable, is now being taken very seriously in both Spain and Portugal. The Portuguese coach, currently under contract with Benfica until June 2027, has confirmed that his future needs to be decided quickly, while denying the existence of a formal offer from Real Madrid at this stage.
Mourinho acknowledged that his agent was in contact with Real Madrid, but clarified that no official offer had yet been made. The Portuguese manager also has a contract extension offer from Benfica, which leaves him with two main options: staying in Lisbon or starting a new chapter at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Real Madrid are looking for a leader to take back control
The situation in Madrid explains the hype surrounding Mourinho. Real Madrid is going through a period of sporting and media tension, with Álvaro Arbeloa on the bench and a season deemed insufficient by the club's standards. When questioned on the subject, Arbeloa refused to confirm anything, reiterating that the decision regarding next season's coach rests with the club. But the former Madrid defender didn't hide his admiration for Mourinho. He described him as “number one” and stated that he would be happy to see him again "at home" if the Portuguese manager were chosen to lead the team next season. This statement reinforces the idea that Mourinho's return is now a credible possibility, even if it hasn't been officially confirmed.
A very promising lead in the Spanish press
Several media outlets claim that the matter is at an advanced stage. Mourinho's appointment could be officially announced before the end of the season.
As a reminder, the link between José Mourinho and Real Madrid remains strong. Between 2010 and 2013, the Portuguese manager won a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey, and a Spanish Super Cup. His time there also marked a turning point in the club's history, with the team once again becoming competitive against Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and setting very high sporting standards.
Benfica hasn't lost its grip yet
The situation remains complex, however. Mourinho is not a free agent. He is under contract with Benfica until 2027, and the Portuguese club has offered him an extension. The manager himself has acknowledged that he needs time and space to decide on his future. But as we know, in football more than anywhere else, what is true one day is often different from what is true the next…
