Is Mourinho returning to Real Madrid?
5/16/2026 1:59:22 PM
Reports have revealed that a final agreement has been reached between veteran Portuguese coach José Mourinho and Real Madrid to take over as head coach of the first football team.
Álvaro Arbeloa had taken charge of Real Madrid after the dismissal of Xabi Alonso in January, following a Spanish Super Cup defeat and several internal dressing-room conflicts.
Real Madrid ended the season without any trophy for the second consecutive year, after losing the Spanish Super Cup final and being eliminated from the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, and the La Liga title race.
There had been multiple reports confirming Mourinho’s return to coach Real Madrid starting next season, replacing Arbeloa.
According to well-known sports journalist Fabrizio Romano on X, Real Madrid received full approval from Mourinho since last week.
He added: “The deal is expected to be completed very soon between both parties. Mourinho had no doubts whatsoever and raised no issues during the initial discussions about the next steps after taking charge of the team.”
The transfer market expert concluded: “Mourinho is very excited about a second chapter with Real Madrid after having previously managed the team between 2010 and 2013.”
Spanish newspaper AS also reported that everything has been agreed between Real Madrid and José Mourinho, with only the signing of the contract remaining.
It noted that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, Mourinho is set to return to Real Madrid until June 2028.
Álvaro Arbeloa had taken charge of Real Madrid after the dismissal of Xabi Alonso in January, following a Spanish Super Cup defeat and several internal dressing-room conflicts.
Real Madrid ended the season without any trophy for the second consecutive year, after losing the Spanish Super Cup final and being eliminated from the Copa del Rey, the Champions League, and the La Liga title race.
There had been multiple reports confirming Mourinho’s return to coach Real Madrid starting next season, replacing Arbeloa.
According to well-known sports journalist Fabrizio Romano on X, Real Madrid received full approval from Mourinho since last week.
He added: “The deal is expected to be completed very soon between both parties. Mourinho had no doubts whatsoever and raised no issues during the initial discussions about the next steps after taking charge of the team.”
The transfer market expert concluded: “Mourinho is very excited about a second chapter with Real Madrid after having previously managed the team between 2010 and 2013.”
Spanish newspaper AS also reported that everything has been agreed between Real Madrid and José Mourinho, with only the signing of the contract remaining.
It noted that, barring any unforeseen circumstances, Mourinho is set to return to Real Madrid until June 2028.