Real Madrid CF have confirmed the return of José Mourinho as first-team coach following the departure of Álvaro Arbeloa, marking a dramatic managerial reshuffle at the Santiago Bernabéu.
In an official announcement, the club stated, “The Board of Directors of Real Madrid CF has agreed to appoint José Mourinho as first team coach for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2029.”
Mourinho, 63, makes his way back to Madrid after a spell with Benfica, who reportedly acknowledged on Wednesday that Real Madrid were prepared to activate his €15 million release clause to secure his services from Portugal.
Club president Florentino Pérez had prioritised Mourinho’s return as part of his campaign commitments ahead of his re-election victory among club members last weekend, underlining the Portuguese manager as a key figure in his long-term vision for the team.
Pérez had also promised an ambitious transfer strategy, including moves for Ibrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries, alongside a high-profile “Galáctico” signing. In line with that pledge, Real Madrid had already tabled a €150 million offer for Julián Álvarez of Atlético Madrid, although that bid was turned down.
Mourinho’s appointment comes after consecutive trophyless campaigns under successive coaches Carlo Ancelotti, Xabi Alonso and Arbeloa, with expectations now high that the Portuguese tactician can restore the club’s competitive edge.
The Portuguese coach previously managed Madrid between 2010 and 2013, a period in which he delivered one La Liga title, a Copa del Rey triumph, and a Spanish Supercopa, while also guiding the club to three UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
Since departing the Bernabéu in 2013, Mourinho has taken charge of several major European clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, AS Roma, Fenerbahçe, and most recently Benfica.
Although he guided Roma to the UEFA Europa Conference League title four years ago, it remains his last major trophy, while his last league triumph dates back to the 2014–15 Premier League season with Chelsea.
During his time at Benfica, Mourinho went unbeaten in the Portuguese league last season, although the campaign ultimately ended in disappointment as the club finished third behind Porto and Sporting.
His Benfica side were also eliminated by Real Madrid in the Champions League knockout phase playoffs, adding further intrigue to his return to the Spanish capital.
