José Mourinho Signs Contract to Return as Real Madrid Head Coach

José Mourinho has signed a three-year contract with Real Madrid, extending through June 2029. The agreement with Benfica came after the club lowered its financial demands, and the deal will be announced after the presidential election on 7 June. Mourinho will leave Benfica, where he led the side to a third-place finish in the 2025-26 Primeira Liga.

One step away from returning. . Real Madrid are close to announcing MourinhoBBC NewsNew York TimesReport: Mourinho signs 3-year contract to return as Real Madrid bossSports Illustrated

Real Madrid have completed two consecutive seasons without a major trophy, a slump not seen since 2008-09. Former manager Xabi Alonso was dismissed in January; interim Álvaro Arbeloa left on 22 May. Mourinho previously led the club from 2010-13, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Super Cup.

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The appointment is driven by club president Florentino Pérez, who triggered early elections on 12 May. Challenger Enrique Riquelme has publicly opposed Mourinho’s selection. Agent Jorge Mendes brokered the terms, while GM José Ángel Sánchez oversaw the recruitment process.

Sports Illustrated

Real Madrid have settled the €7 million release clause that expired in Mourinho’s Benfica contract, finalising the fee after negotiations led by Mendes. The club says most financial details are now confirmed, removing the primary obstacle to the coach’s return.

One step away from returning. . Real Madrid are close to announcing MourinhoNew York TimesReport: Mourinho signs 3-year contract to return as Real Madrid bossBBC NewsSports Illustrated

Pérez told RTVE he is “thinking about it” and has “two” names in mind, adding he has not yet spoken with Mourinho. Riquelme, in a campaign video, said his side had already secured a coaching deal before announcing his candidacy, suggesting a different direction if he wins.

Sports Illustrated

Riquelme says Mourinho would not be his choice, opposing Pérez’s preferred candidate. Press commentary notes past controversy after February Champions League meetings with Benfica, where Mourinho blamed Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior for racist abuse, raising concerns about internal discord.

New York Times

Reports from The Athletic, AS and other outlets describe Mourinho as a “lock” on the position, citing a finalized agreement with his agent. In contrast, Pérez’s remarks deny any contact with Mourinho and stress that a decision cannot be made before the election, highlighting a clear discrepancy.

New York Times

• “I’m thinking about it.” — Florentino Pérez, Real Madrid President

Sports Illustrated

• “or two.” — Florentino Pérez

Sports Illustrated

• “Well, he’s a great manager of course [but] we’re not about to announce anything. I still haven’t talked to Mourinho.” — Florentino Pérez

Sports Illustrated

• “We finalized the coaching deal before announcing my candidacy,” — Enrique Riquelme, presidential candidate

Sports Illustrated

The club’s 100,000-member election on 7 June will decide whether Pérez remains president. The official unveiling of Mourinho as head coach is slated for shortly after the vote, contingent on the election outcome.

New York Times