Jose Mourinho has reached an agreement to return to Real Madrid, according to multiple reports on Tuesday. The Portuguese manager is poised to replace current head coach Alvaro Arbeloa after the club endured a turbulent 2025-26 campaign marked by dressing room instability and trophy drought.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Mourinho and Real Madrid are in advanced conversations, with the project actively being presented to the veteran tactician. Romano stated on his YouTube channel that discussions are ongoing and "the deal between Jose Mourinho and Real Madrid is absolutely on," though he emphasized that formal approval ultimately rests with club president Florentino Perez.
The Mourinho Return Project
Mourinho, currently managing Benfica in the Primeira Liga, has impressed with his work in Portugal. His side has won 26 of their last 44 matches and maintains an unbeaten league record, though they sit third in the standings. Real Madrid would need to activate a £3 million release clause to secure his services immediately. The 61-year-old previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, establishing himself as one of the club's most successful modern managers during that era.
The Bernabéu has descended into chaos over consecutive seasons without a major trophy. Both Arbeloa and his predecessor Xabi Alonso struggled to maintain control of the squad, prompting Perez's decisive action. Journalist Sacha Tavolieri now claims the deal is effectively done, pending final administrative steps.
- Mourinho has won 26 of 44 recent matches with Benfica
- Real Madrid release clause valued at £3 million
- Previously managed Real Madrid for three seasons (2010-2013)
- Currently managing Portuguese champions Benfica
Romano's assessment suggests Mourinho is ready to accept the opportunity and would not reject a formal proposal from Real Madrid. The question now becomes what tactical adjustments and personnel demands the Special One will impose. His appointment would represent a dramatic shift in direction for a club desperate to restore stability and silverware to the Bernabéu.
