Portuguese manager José Mourinho is set for a sensational return to Real Madrid after signing a three-year contract to become the club’s new head coach.
Key Highlights:
- José Mourinho is set to return as head coach of Real Madrid CF on a three-year deal.
- His appointment depends on the outcome of the club’s presidential election scheduled for June 7.
- Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning multiple domestic trophies.
- He replaces Álvaro Arbeloa after a disappointing, trophyless season for the club.
- The appointment is aimed at restoring stability and success, though he faces high expectations.
The 63-year-old will officially assume the role following the club’s presidential election scheduled for June 7, with the agreement reportedly dependent on incumbent president Florentino Pérez securing another term in office.
Mourinho leaves Portuguese side Benfica, where he guided the club to a third-place finish in the Primeira Liga after taking charge in September.
The veteran coach previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning the La Liga title, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup during a successful first spell at the Santiago Bernabéu.
He replaces Álvaro Arbeloa, who was appointed in January following the departure of Xabi Alonso.
Real Madrid are seeking a fresh start after enduring a second consecutive trophyless season.
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Their campaign ended in disappointment as rivals FC Barcelona secured the La Liga title, while Bayern Munich eliminated Los Blancos from the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals.
The club’s hierarchy believes Mourinho’s experience, leadership and ability to manage high-profile players can help restore discipline and competitiveness within a squad that has reportedly faced internal tensions throughout the season.
Mourinho remains one of football’s most decorated managers, having enjoyed successful spells with clubs across Europe.
Following his departure from Real Madrid in 2013, he returned to Chelsea FC and won another Premier League title before managing Manchester United FC, where he lifted the Europa League, EFL Cup and Community Shield.
He later coached Tottenham Hotspur FC, AS Roma—winning the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2022—and Fenerbahçe SK before taking charge of Benfica.
The appointment is widely viewed as a move by Real Madrid to restore authority, identity and stability after a turbulent campaign.
However, Mourinho is expected to face immense pressure to deliver immediate success and return the Spanish giants to domestic and European prominence.
With a demanding fan base and expectations at an all-time high, Mourinho’s second spell at Real Madrid promises to be one of the most closely watched managerial appointments in world football.
