Key Takeaways
- Jose Mourinho states no Real Madrid official has spoken to him about the managerial vacancy
- The Portuguese coach remains under contract with Benfica for another year
- Real Madrid president Florentino Perez reportedly favours Mourinho but faces resistance from the dressing room
Jose Mourinho has firmly rejected rumours linking him with a return to Real Madrid this summer. The current Benfica manager insists nobody from the Spanish giants has contacted him about replacing Alvaro Arbeloa at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking to the media on Friday, the 63-year-old dismissed claims he was in discussions with Los Blancos. “Nobody from Real Madrid spoke to me. I can promise you that,” Mourinho stated. “I have worked in football for many years. We see these stories often, but there is nothing from Real Madrid.”
Mourinho remains under contract with Benfica for another season. He made it clear he is focused on his present role. “I have one year left here. That is the situation,” he added.
Despite his denial, reports suggest Real Madrid president Florentino Perez prefers Mourinho for the position. The pair enjoyed a close relationship during Mourinho’s first spell at the club between 2009 and 2013. However, other names remain under consideration.
Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has ruled himself out of the running. Massimiliano Allegri, Mauricio Pochettino and Unai Emery are also options. Yet Perez reportedly leaked Mourinho’s name to test supporter reaction this week.
One problem blocks Mourinho’s path. The Real Madrid dressing room does not welcome his return. Players remain unhappy about his response to racist abuse aimed at Vinicius Junior during a match at the Estadio da Luz earlier this season.
The search for Arbeloa’s successor continues. No clear candidate has emerged, leaving the Bernabeu hierarchy facing a difficult decision before next season begins.