Jose Mourinho has reportedly reached a verbal agreement to return to Real Madrid as manager, ending speculation about his future after a year at Benfica. The 63-year-old Portuguese coach will sign a two-year contract to succeed Alvaro Arbeloa at the Bernabeu, marking his second stint with the Spanish giants over a decade after his original departure in 2013.
The deal is expected to be officially confirmed following Madrid's final La Liga match against Athletic Bilbao, as reported by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. Mourinho's appointment represents president Florentino Perez's response to an inconsistent season that saw the club fail to win silverware under Arbeloa's brief tenure. The managerial carousel at the Bernabeu—which previously included Xabi Alonso's departure in January—now sees a familiar tactical mind return to restore stability.
From Invincibility to Madrid's Appeal
At Benfica, Mourinho orchestrated a historic unbeaten run in the Portuguese Primeira Liga during the 2024-25 season, yet paradoxically finished third due to an excess of draws. The Eagles drew 18 matches—a statistical oddity that left the manager's legacy bittersweet despite their defensive solidity. Despite earlier suggesting a "99 per cent chance" he would remain in Lisbon, the opportunity to manage Real Madrid proved irresistible for the veteran strategist.
Mourinho's first Madrid era, from 2010 to 2013, remains legendary among supporters. He delivered a record-breaking 100-point La Liga title in 2011-12, demonstrating the intensity and tactical discipline that defined his management style. With the club now searching for direction, his appointment signals a return to the combative, authoritative football that made the Bernabeu a fortress during his original tenure.
Transfer Activity and Rashford Interest
Mourinho is already targeting recruitment priorities, with Marcus Rashford emerging as a primary target. The England winger currently on loan at Barcelona has caught the manager's eye, and Madrid may capitalise on Barcelona's financial constraints to secure a permanent deal. Rashford's pace and versatility align with Mourinho's tactical philosophy, and acquiring him from the Clasico rivals would represent a statement of intent in the transfer market.
The official announcement is anticipated early next week once Madrid completes their domestic fixtures. For the club's supporters, Mourinho's return represents a chance to reclaim dominance in La Liga and reassert themselves as Champions League contenders under proven leadership. His challenge mirrors his 2010 arrival: dethrone Barcelona and restore Madrid to the summit of Spanish and European football.
