The proposed return of José Mourinho to Real Madrid CF has reportedly been frozen amid uncertainty surrounding the club’s upcoming presidential elections.
According to reports in Spain, an agreement between Mourinho and Real Madrid had already been prepared, with the Portuguese coach expected to sign a two-year contract including an option for a third season should he win La Liga.
However, the deal remains on hold pending the outcome of club president Florentino Pérez’s reelection bid.
Spanish media claim Mourinho has already submitted a detailed transfer report to the club outlining the areas he believes require urgent strengthening. The former Real Madrid manager is understood to have requested reinforcements at full back, two new central defenders and two midfielders ahead of next season.
The report also suggests departures will be necessary to balance the squad, with Eduardo Camavinga and Dani Ceballos both reportedly expected to leave, while uncertainty also surrounds Antonio Rüdiger, whose contract expires on 30 June and has yet to be renewed.
Although initial reports suggested Mourinho could leave for around €7 million through a release clause, Portuguese outlet Record claims the final compensation package required to release him could rise to as much as €14 million.
The biggest obstacle, however, remains the presidential election scheduled for 7 June.
Perez is set to face challenger Enrique Riquelme, whose vision for the club appears significantly different regarding the managerial position.
Riquelme has already cast doubt over Mourinho’s potential appointment, insisting Real Madrid require a long-term project rather than a short-term solution.
“Mourinho is a great coach who has achieved many successes and has a particular way of managing the dressing room,” Riquelme reportedly said.
“Sometimes it can be useful, sometimes less so, depending on the situation. I believe the club needs a long-term project.”
Those comments have fuelled speculation that Mourinho’s anticipated return to the Santiago Bernabéu could ultimately collapse should Perez fail to retain the presidency.
