Is José Mourinho heading back to Real Madrid 13 years later as Benfica future hangs in balance?
Benfica stability and Real Madrid intrigue collide as Mourinho’s next move becomes one of soccer’s most watched storylines.
It happened on Wednesday, and the news did not get as much attention as it arguably deserved. Kylian Mbappé clicked “like” on an Instagram post linking José Mourinho’s name with a possible return to Real Madrid.
Mbappé does not tend to do things without intent. The gesture came after AS first reported that Mourinho’s representatives had offered his services to the Spanish giants. The Portuguese manager is now one of several top-level coaches being considered at the Bernabéu.
According to sources, Mourinho is open to the idea. He is currently fully focused on Benfica and planning for next season, but a call from Real Madrid would immediately change his outlook.
How Mourinho’s Benfica clause could impact Real Madrid
Mourinho’s contract situation adds another layer of intrigue.
Sources indicate that the clause allowing him to leave Benfica on a free transfer expires 10 days after the club’s final match of the season, scheduled for May 16 or 17. That means he could depart without a transfer fee before June begins.
If Real Madrid were to move later, people familiar with the situation suggest the cost would still be largely symbolic.
For now, Mourinho remains focused on his current job, though he is said to be somewhat frustrated that his name continues to be repeatedly linked with Madrid without any formal negotiations beyond informal approaches from his broader professional circle.
Mourinho enters final year with Benfica
Mourinho is already preparing for next season with Benfica and has one year left on his contract.
In Lisbon, his impact is widely viewed as positive, with the team’s performances improving significantly under his leadership. That includes a standout 4-2 win over Real Madrid that secured a historic playoff qualification.
However, several sources suggest Benfica president Rui Costa is not planning to offer a contract extension this summer. Instead, the club is expected to evaluate the team’s trajectory during the early part of next season before making any major decisions.
Real Madrid return still alive
Even if unlikely, a Mourinho return to Real Madrid 13 years after his departure is still considered a real possibility.
There was even speculation that Bernabéu fans might have voiced their opinion on the idea during a recent European match, had Mourinho not been sent off in Lisbon.
At the same time, his reputation has been partially clouded by past comments regarding racist incidents involving Vinícius Júnior, which drew criticism for appearing to downplay or justify the situation.
No Mourinho guarantees in Lisbon
In a recent Benfica press conference, Mourinho was asked whether he could guarantee he would still be at the club next season, given that he has only one year remaining on his contract.
After initially deflecting, he responded with a sharp retort:
“And can you guarantee you’ll still be working at RTP (Portugal’s public service broadcaster) next year?”
The exchange highlighted the growing external noise around his future, which has also gained traction in Portugal following AS reporting on Real Madrid’s interest.
Reaction in Portugal
“The reality is Mourinho has one year left on his contract and is in a perfect place for him right now,” Nuno Martins of Record told AS. “His future is secure, but he is clearly waiting to see what happens next. He has told players he wants to win the title with Benfica, but Real Madrid is a different level for him and for any coach.”
Nelson Feiteirona of A Bola added: “There has been a lot of reaction to the AS report because even with a year left, nobody can guarantee he will stay. President Rui Costa has not clarified anything. Mourinho would like to remain at Benfica if Madrid does not appear. But if Real Madrid calls, he will consider it. That is certain.”
Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that of this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.
And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.