Jose Mourinho Tipped for Sensational Real Madrid Return After Champions League Chaos
Jose Mourinho could be set for a dramatic return to Real Madrid this summer, with the Spanish giants reportedly considering a move for the Special One after his current club Benfica secured a memorable victory over them in the Champions League.
Mourinho's Benfica Triumph Sparks Real Madrid Speculation
The Portuguese manager, currently in charge at Benfica, masterminded a victory that secured his team's passage into the knockout stages of Europe's premier club competition. This result has apparently caught the attention of Real Madrid's hierarchy, who are seeking a permanent manager for the upcoming season.
Mourinho previously spent three successful years at the Bernabeu between 2010 and 2013, during which he won La Liga and the Copa del Rey. Despite leaving without securing the Champions League trophy that has eluded Real Madrid in recent years, his tenure is remembered fondly by many at the club.
Real Madrid's Managerial Situation
Real Madrid recently parted ways with Xabi Alonso, installing Alvaro Arbeloa as interim manager. However, the club is expected to pursue a high-profile appointment in the summer, with Mourinho's name now firmly in the frame according to Spanish outlet AS.
The report suggests that Mourinho's stature, aura, and experience managing star-studded squads make him an attractive candidate for a club that regularly deals with dressing rooms full of huge egos and global superstars.
Mourinho's Recent Comments and Other Options
Despite the speculation, Mourinho has recently attempted to distance himself from the rumours. He stated: "Don't count on me for soap operas. There are good soap operas, but they are very long. You miss a chapter or two and then you lose the thread. Don't count on me, because I don't watch soap operas."
Additionally, the former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham manager is understood to be a potential candidate for the Portugal national team job, should it become vacant after this summer's World Cup. Mourinho has previously expressed his desire to manage his country one day, calling it "a natural consequence of my career."
What a Return Would Mean for Mourinho
A move back to Real Madrid would represent Mourinho's best opportunity to compete for multiple major trophies in nearly a decade. Since leaving Manchester United in 2018, he has managed Tottenham, Roma, Fenerbahce, and now Benfica - clubs that, while respectable, are not considered regular Champions League contenders.
At Real Madrid, Mourinho would have world-class talents like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham at his disposal, along with the resources to build a squad capable of challenging on all fronts. The club is currently facing the prospect of a trophyless season, having been eliminated from the Copa del Rey, trailing Barcelona in La Liga, and needing to navigate the Champions League play-off phase.
Mourinho's Impressive Real Madrid Record
During his previous stint at the Bernabeu, Mourinho achieved remarkable success:
- Won 71% of his matches in charge
- His 2012/13 team still holds the record for most points and wins in a La Liga season
- Secured the league title with a record 100 points in 2012
- Won the Copa del Rey in 2011
This proven track record at the highest level, combined with his recent success against Real Madrid with Benfica, makes Mourinho a compelling candidate for the Spanish giants as they plan their next managerial move.
