Jose Mourinho is reportedly set to return to Real Madrid as head coach, according to reports from The Athletic. The Portuguese manager is said to have signed a contract running until 2029, with an official announcement expected after the club’s upcoming presidential elections.
The 63 year old is expected to replace interim coach Álvaro Arbeloa, who took charge in January following the departure of Xabi Alonso. Arbeloa oversaw the remainder of the campaign, but Real Madrid ended the season without winning a trophy.
Real Madrid were eliminated by Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League quarter finals and finished second in LaLiga behind rivals Barcelona, who ended the campaign eight points clear at the top of the standings.
Mourinho most recently managed Benfica after leaving Turkish club Fenerbahce. Reports state that a release clause in his Benfica contract allowed negotiations with Real Madrid to progress quickly. According to The Athletic, Mourinho has agreed a three year deal reportedly worth around €12 million gross per season.
This would mark Mourinho’s second spell at the Santiago Bernabéu. He previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning the LaLiga title during the 2011 and 2012 season. During that period, he oversaw 178 competitive matches.
Real Madrid’s recent campaign has also been marked by internal difficulties. Reports in Spain claimed tensions within the squad increased following disappointing results, while president Florentino Pérez has also faced criticism from supporters during the season.
Pérez is expected to stand for re election on 7 June as he seeks another term as club president.
An official announcement regarding Mourinho’s appointment is expected after the presidential election process is completed.
