- José Mourinho is set to make a sensational return to Real Madrid, 13 years after his initial departure, signing a three-year contract that officially begins on 13 July with the start of preseason training.
- His first tenure at the Bernabéu from 2010 to 2013 was marked by both significant success, including a Spanish league title and a Copa del Rey, and a polarising, confrontational managerial style.
- Mourinho now faces the challenge of inheriting an underperforming Real Madrid squad that has endured a two-year drought without a major title, despite the presence of superstar Kylian Mbappé.
- The club has experienced considerable instability this season, having cycled through two coaches, Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa, highlighting the disarray Mourinho is tasked with addressing.
- His return was anticipated following the re-election of president Florentino Perez, who expressed pride in welcoming back Mourinho, whom he described as “one of the best coaches in the world” and a “Madridista”.
IN FULL
Jose Mourinho returns to Real Madrid as he signs three-year contract with Spanish giants