Real Madrid has secured its next managerial appointment, José Mourinho, despite the ongoing presidential elections. Reports circulating for weeks about Mourinho’s potential return to the club have now materialized into a legally binding agreement.
Mourinho had one year remaining on his contract with Benfica. While his contract initially included a €3 million release clause that expired on May 25th, the latest reports suggest Real Madrid will now need to pay up to €15 million to secure his release from his Lisbon contract. Mourinho himself is eager to return to the Santiago Bernabéu, even after being offered an extension by Benfica.
Mourinho Commits to Real Madrid Deal
Although current President Florentino Pérez is involved in the election process, Mourinho has signed a contract with Real Madrid extending until 2029. Pérez is the strong favorite to win against rival Enrique Riquelme in the elections scheduled for June 7th. It remains uncertain whether a clause exists to terminate the deal should Riquelme emerge victorious. If Pérez is confirmed as the winner, Mourinho is expected to be unveiled the following day, with reports indicating that preparations for his backroom staff are already underway.
Potential Coaching Staff for Mourinho
Multiple sources indicate that Mourinho is keen to include a former player in his coaching staff. This individual would serve as a liaison between the coaching team and the players, and would also be tasked with mediating any player disagreements. It is anticipated that current Benfica assistants João Tralhão and Pedro Machado will join Mourinho, along with fitness coach António Dias and analyst Roberto Merella.
