Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez is reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing José Mourinho back to the Santiago Bernabéu as the club seeks to address a worrying slump in form. The legendary Portuguese coach, currently at the helm of Benfica, is emerging as a serious candidate to lead a new era in the Spanish capital as they plan to replace Álvaro Arbeloa.
According to reports from Portuguese outlet Record, Mourinho is high on the shortlist to replace the current technical leadership at Real Madrid. The hierarchy at the Bernabéu is under growing pressure to make a change in the dugout following two consecutive seasons without a major trophy. Pérez is said to be planning a meeting to discuss a potential return, though there has been no official contact or direct approach to Mourinho so far.
The 63-year-old Mourinho is said to be monitoring developments in Madrid very closely from Lisbon, aware that the vacancy at one of the world’s most prestigious clubs could soon become a reality if the board decides to pull the trigger on a change. His status as a candidate is gaining traction amid external pressure mounting due to declining results and a failure to meet the club’s lofty objectives.
Mourinho famously spent three years in Madrid between 2010 and 2013, famously breaking Barcelona’s domestic dominance by winning a record-breaking La Liga title and the Copa del Rey. While his departure was marked by friction, his relationship with Pérez has remained respectful over the years. The president is now said to be planning a meeting to discuss a potential return, which would mark a sensational reunion if it comes to fruition.
Real Madrid are reportedly exploring the possibility of bringing Mourinho back as they look to arrest a worrying slump in form. The club has experienced two trophyless seasons in Spain, prompting Pérez to consider drastic action. A decisive meeting is scheduled within the club to determine the final direction of the first team, involving Pérez and key figures such as Arbeloa.
While Mourinho remains under contract with Benfica, his future has been the subject of ongoing speculation. Recent reports suggest he has not ruled out a return to management at the highest level, leaving the door open for potential suitors like Real Madrid. The Special One’s name continues to surface in coaching conversations across Europe, particularly when elite clubs experience instability in the dugout.
The situation regarding the head coach position at Real Madrid remains open, but external pressure is mounting due to declining results and a failure to meet the club’s lofty objectives. Pérez, who has been president of Real Madrid from 2000 to 2006 and from 2009 onwards, is known for his willingness to make bold decisions when he believes it is necessary for the club’s success.
During his first six years as president, Pérez implemented the Galácticos policy of bringing the world’s best players to Real Madrid. In his first four seasons in charge, he bought Luís Figo from arch-rivals Barcelona, Zinedine Zidane for a then-world record transfer fee, Ronaldo, and David Beckham. This history of pursuing high-profile signings and appointments suggests he may be inclined to consider a bold move like rehiring Mourinho.
As of Tuesday, April 21, 2026, no official announcement has been made regarding a change in Real Madrid’s coaching staff. The club continues to evaluate its options as it seeks to return to winning ways in both domestic and European competitions. Any potential move for Mourinho would depend on numerous factors, including his willingness to leave Benfica and the club’s internal decision-making process.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Real Madrid will be their upcoming La Liga fixture, though specific details about the match have not been verified in the available sources. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the club addresses its coaching situation in the coming weeks.
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