"The Special One" could sign for Real Madrid in the near future. © ANSA / ANTONIO PEDRO SANTOS

Mourinho reportedly close to returning to Real Madrid

According to multiple media reports, José Mourinho's return to the Real Madrid coaching position is practically a done deal.

16 May 2026

From: dpa

According to the website "The Athletic," Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez plans to meet with the 63-year-old Portuguese manager next week to finalize negotiations. Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano explained that the Spanish record champions have had Mourinho's approval since last week.

Pérez is considered a big fan of Mourinho, whose contract with Benfica Lisbon still has a year to run. However, the coach reportedly has a release clause and recently declined to comment publicly on his potential departure from Portugal's record champions. Mourinho missed out on the league title with Benfica this season.

Successor sought for hapless Arbeloa

Pérez also refrained from making a definitive statement. However, rumors have recently intensified that Mourinho could return to Real Madrid after his first stint from 2010 to 2013.
Real Madrid have had a turbulent season without a title.

Xabi Alonso had no luck at Real Madrid. © APA/afp / JOSE JORDAN

Former Leverkusen title-winning coach Xabi Alonso had to leave halfway through the season, and his hapless successor Álvaro Arbeloa was unable to turn things around. The team, led by French striker Kylian Mbappé, repeatedly made headlines due to turmoil both on and off the pitch.

Praise for Mourinho from the current coach

Arbeloa seems to have come to terms with his departure and praised his former coach Mourinho, under whom he himself played as a professional. "If he's the one who's here next season, I'll be happy to see him back home. For me as a player, and especially as a Real Madrid supporter, I think and feel that he's number one," Arbeloa said ahead of Sunday's match against Sevilla.