News Focus
- Jose Mourinho set for second spell at Real Madrid 13 years after his first departure
- Two-year contract agreed with automatic extension clause triggered by La Liga title success
- Official announcement delayed until after presidential elections conclude on May 24
- Benfica assistants Joao Tralhao and Pedro Machado expected to follow Mourinho to Spain
- Current Benfica boss still has one year remaining on his contract with the Portuguese club
Real Madrid stand ready to welcome Jose Mourinho back to the Santiago Bernabeu. The Spanish giants have reached an agreement with the Portuguese coach over terms for a dramatic return.
Thirteen years have passed since Mourinho last managed Los Blancos. He initially emerged as a surprise candidate after the club decided not to offer Raul Arbeloa the position beyond this season. Club president Florentino Perez has now made the bold choice to bring the Special One back to turn around the team’s fortunes.
According to reports from Diario AS, both parties have finalised the contract details. The agreement covers two seasons with an optional third year. This extra year becomes automatic if Mourinho delivers the La Liga title during either of his first two campaigns in charge.
The 61-year-old currently manages Benfica and still has twelve months left on his deal there. He has recently given mixed signals about his future when questioned by the media. It remains unclear whether Real Madrid have accepted all his demands regarding working conditions.
However, the Spanish publication confirms that two members of his Benfica backroom team will join him. Assistants Joao Tralhao and Pedro Machado are set to make the move to Madrid.
The club hopes to have Mourinho in place by early June. Yet this timeline depends on the outcome of presidential elections. Perez faces a potential challenge from Enrique Riquelme, who has until Saturday to submit his candidacy.
If nobody opposes Perez, the current president will secure another term on Sunday, May 24th. Mourinho’s appointment would then become official the following day. Real Madrid refuse to confirm the manager beforehand to avoid complications should a different president take office.