Florentino Pérez targets Mourinho as Real Madrid’s next manager

Jose Mourinho has emerged as the leading candidate on Real Madrid’s managerial shortlist, with club president Florentino Pérez reportedly favouring a sensational return for the Portuguese coach.

Current boss Álvaro Arbeloa, who was appointed in January 2026, following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso, is now expected to leave at the end of the season after a disappointing campaign.

According to multiple sources, Pérez himself is driving the decision on the next managerial appointment, marking a shift in control from the club’s general management structure that previously oversaw coaching transitions.

Last season, the appointment of Alonso to replace Carlo Ancelotti was largely led by general manager José Ángel Sánchez, although it still required Pérez’s approval.

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This time, however, the president is said to be taking a more direct role as he seeks to rebuild a project that has fallen short of expectations, with Madrid on course to finish a second consecutive season without a major trophy such as La Liga, the Champions League, or the Copa del Rey.

Mourinho is seen as a leading option not only for his track record but also for the impact he could bring back to the club.

During his previous spell between 2010 and 2013, he won three trophies, including the 2011–12 La Liga title, which set a then-record points tally.

The Champions League remained the only major honour he failed to deliver in that period.

A return would also reunite Mourinho with Pérez, a partnership that previously brought both success and intense attention to the club.

However, his earlier tenure was also marked by internal tensions, including reported friction with senior players such as Iker Casillas, leaving a mixed legacy among sections of the fanbase.

Mourinho is currently under contract at Benfica until 2027, but his deal reportedly includes a release clause in the region of €3 million, which could allow an exit shortly after the season ends.

Other names have also been discussed internally, including Mauricio Pochettino, Didier Deschamps, and long-term admirer Jürgen Klopp, though Mourinho is understood to be Pérez’s preferred choice as Madrid prepares for another major managerial decision.

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