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José Mourinho appears set to return to the Real Madrid dugout. Local reports say the club is in the final stages of a deal and only an official announcement remains.
The Athletic reported on the 29th that Mourinho, currently Benfica’s manager, has signed a three‑year contract that would run through June 2029.
That agreement, however, hinges on the outcome of Real Madrid’s presidential election on June 7. If incumbent Florentino Pérez wins re‑election, the club is expected to move forward with Mourinho’s appointment.
The vote is a contest between Pérez, who has led the club since 2009, and Enrique Riquelme, the CEO of a renewable energy firm. Pérez has publicly backed Mourinho, while Riquelme is said to favor a different managerial direction.
Most local observers view Pérez as the likely winner, which has made Mourinho’s comeback seem all but inevitable.
Reports indicate Real has already begun assembling a coaching staff and scouting potential signings for next season. The club has not issued an official statement, but sources say internal preparations for a new regime are underway.
Real Madrid has gone two straight seasons without a major trophy, falling short of expectations. After Xabi Alonso’s departure, the club turned to Álvaro Arbeloa as manager, but results did not improve and reports of locker‑room tension followed.
The club decided it needed an experienced, charismatic leader and has again turned to Mourinho, who has a proven track record at the club.
Mourinho managed Real from 2010 to 2013, delivering a La Liga title, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. He is widely credited with restoring the team’s competitive edge through strong leadership and a win‑driven mentality.
Mourinho still has a contract with Benfica, which he signed last year, but it reportedly includes a buyout clause of about €3 million (roughly $3.21 million), so that is not expected to be a major obstacle.
The global soccer world is watching to see whether Real Madrid will once again hand the rebuild to the “Special One.”
Photo: AFP / Yonhap Newsn
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