Mourinho agrees verbal deal for Real Madrid return

José Mourinho is reportedly set for a dramatic return to Real Madrid after reaching a verbal agreement in principle to become head coach on an initial two-year deal.

Club officials are now preparing final paperwork, with an official announcement expected after Real Madrid’s final La Liga fixture against Athletic Bilbao.

The move follows a disappointing campaign for Real Madrid, who are set to end the season without a major trophy after falling behind rivals FC Barcelona in La Liga and suffering early exits in both the Copa del Rey and UEFA Champions League.

The club endured a turbulent managerial cycle, beginning the season under Xabi Alonso, who was later dismissed. Interim duties were then handed to Álvaro Arbeloa, but results and dressing-room tensions continued to worsen.

Club president Florentino Pérez is understood to have opted for an experienced and authoritative figure to restore stability, following previous high-pressure rebuilds under managers such as Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane.

Mourinho is currently in charge of SL Benfica, whom he joined in September. Although under contract until 2027, his deal reportedly includes a short exit window after the season, allowing termination for a fee estimated between €3 million and €6 million.

Following Benfica’s final league match, Mourinho hinted at ongoing developments, saying:

“There is something in the works… this week will be important.”

Mourinho’s first spell at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013 remains one of the most successful and controversial eras in the club’s modern history, highlighted by a La Liga title, a Copa del Rey triumph, and a Spanish Super Cup win.

His tenure also featured a fierce rivalry with Barcelona and its then-manager Pep Guardiola, but ended amid reported tensions with senior players.

Former captain Iker Casillas has previously expressed reservations about his return, reflecting divided opinion among supporters.

Despite that, reports suggest Mourinho has already begun informal contact with key squad figures including Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé, and Thibaut Courtois as he prepares for a potential squad rebuild at the Bernabéu.