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Real Madrid in talks to rehire Mourinho after Benfica stint

5/17/2026

45 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Mourinho Return Talks

Real Madrid is in contact with José Mourinho, whose agent Jorge Mendes confirmed talks about a return.
Benfica offered Mourinho a contract renewal through June 2027, completed an unbeaten Primeira Liga run with a 3-1 win at Estoril, and finished third after 11 draws, missing a Champions League place.
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa praised Mourinho, noted no official offer and said he will decide his future this week.

Summary

Mourinho Misses Title

José Mourinho (coach) returned to Benfica after a brief spell 25 years ago.
Benfica finished third despite an unbeaten league season, joining FC Sheriff (2024-25) and Red Star Belgrade (2007-08) as only European clubs this century to miss the title unbeaten.
Finishing third sends Benfica to the Europa League next season instead of the Champions League.
Benfica recorded seven Champions League defeats and one Portuguese Cup loss during the season.

Summary

Benfica Transfer Plans

Benfica aims to replace Nicolás Otamendi in the upcoming transfer window.
Yanis Begraoui finished the Liga with 20 goals, third behind Luis Suarez and Vangelis Pavlidis, making him a sale prospect.
Benfica’s fees for Georgiy Sudakov and Franjo Ivanovic have not been justified, raising doubts about their future.
Ian Cathro’s Estoril scored 57 goals in 34 games, finishing 10th and exposing defensive frailties.

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Mourinho Return Talks

Real Madrid is in contact with José Mourinho, whose agent Jorge Mendes confirmed talks about a return.
Benfica offered Mourinho a contract renewal through June 2027, completed an unbeaten Primeira Liga run with a 3-1 win at Estoril, and finished third after 11 draws, missing a Champions League place.
Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa praised Mourinho, noted no official offer and said he will decide his future this week.

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