Real Madrid are expected to confirm Mourinho’s appointment after Sunday’s final game of the season against Athletic Club, with the Portuguese manager set to be officially unveiled in Madrid next week.
According to SKY SPORTS, the agreement reportedly includes the option for a further year as Real Madrid move quickly to stabilise the club following a disappointing trophyless campaign and growing off-field controversy surrounding the dressing room.
Former defender Álvaro Arbeloa has been overseeing the team on an interim basis since the dismissal of Xabi Alonso in January, just seven months into Alonso’s reign.
Mourinho now returns to the Santiago Bernabéu with the task of restoring discipline, competitiveness and stability to one of Europe’s biggest clubs.
The 63-year-old ended the season with S.L. Benfica on Saturday after guiding the Lisbon side to third place in Liga Portugal during an unbeaten league campaign.
Despite signing a two-year deal with Benfica only eight months ago, Mourinho’s contract reportedly contained a £2.6 million release clause that allowed him to leave for another opportunity.
Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning the La Liga title, Copa del Rey and Spanish Super Cup during a fiercely competitive era dominated by Barcelona under Pep Guardiola.
His first spell at the club was characterised by intense rivalry, strong dressing-room authority and a combative mentality that many supporters believe helped restore Real Madrid’s competitiveness on both domestic and European fronts.
The Portuguese coach is also understood to maintain a strong relationship with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, a factor believed to have played a significant role in the club’s decision to bring him back.
Mourinho’s return represents one of the biggest managerial stories in European football ahead of the summer, with attention now turning to how he reshapes the squad after a turbulent season.
The appointment also raises questions over the futures of several senior players as Mourinho prepares to impose his authority on a dressing room that struggled for consistency during the campaign.
For Real Madrid, the hope is that a familiar figure with proven experience can quickly restore order and return the club to competing for major honours next season.
