Famous super-agent back on the horizon for Real Madrid

The unexpected electoral scenario at Real Madrid has put José Mourinho’s return on hold, a situation that will be resolved once the club’s presidential elections conclude in two weeks. The negotiations for the Portuguese coach’s appointment, initiated and finalised by the current acting president, Florentino Pérez, were orchestrated by one man: Jorge Mendes.

The agent has reappeared on Real Madrid’s radar in the most unexpected way, through the man who managed the club for three seasons between 2010 and 2013. Mendes initially believed Mourinho’s return was impossible, as those at Valdebebas had first indicated, but his proposal opened a door that the current Real Madrid hierarchy felt had to be explored. After some hesitation, and given the atmosphere in the dressing room, the final decision was made in the closing days of April.

The election process has not diminished the determination of either the manager or the agent to complete a project that had already been planned, outlined, and signed off. Now, with Mendes leading the operation, many names linked to the agent are expected to emerge. His client portfolio is extensive and varied, and if Florentino Pérez prevails in his contest with Enrique Riquelme, some of those players could arrive at the Bernabéu. Mourinho knows them well, and his list of targets has already been drawn up.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Pepe, Fábio Coentrão, James Rodríguez, and Ricardo Carvalho are among the players who were previously represented by Mendes during their time at Real Madrid. After years of distance, there is now renewed harmony between the club and the agent. Time, and the votes of the members, will determine whether it becomes reality.

Although Mendes parted ways with Cristiano Ronaldo some time ago, he remains one of football’s most influential agents, representing players such as Lamine Yamal, João Félix, Vitinha, João Neves, Bradley Barcola, Rúben Dias, and Andriy Lunin. In recent months, he has also become involved in the representation of Marco Asensio alongside the Canary Islander’s long-time agent.

As for Mourinho, who attended the German Cup final on Saturday, his willingness to accommodate Real Madrid’s current situation is absolute. Given the need to pay his release clause before the end of the Madrid election campaign, he is even prepared to cover the payment himself.

Two summers ago, Mendes kept the door open for Real Madrid to complete the signing of Leny Yoro, but the French defender ultimately chose Manchester United’s offer, a decision that was not well received at Valdebebas. Given the centre-back’s performances since then, however, the matter no longer carries much weight.

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