José Mourinho returns to Real Madrid today: The transfers and decisions at the top of his list

José Mourinho lands in Madrid today and is officially back in charge at Real Madrid.

His immediate priority is to get to work as quickly as possible and make up for lost time following the club’s recent presidential election process. During the campaign period, several key decisions were put on hold. Now, Mourinho’s focus is on two major tasks: planning preseason, including the location of the training camp and summer friendlies, and finalizing the squad he wants for the upcoming season.

Real Madrid has already confirmed the arrivals of Ibrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries to strengthen central defense and right back. Mourinho is also eager to reconnect with the staff at Valdebebas, many of whom he worked with during his first stint at the club.

Mourinho’s trusted inner circle

Mourinho begins his second chapter in Madrid alongside what he reportedly considers the strongest coaching staff of his career, a group that was already working with him at Benfica.

João Tralhão serves as his right-hand man, with Pedro Machado also playing a key role. Roberto Merella remains Mourinho’s trusted analyst, primarily responsible for scouting opponents, while Nuno Santos oversees goalkeeping duties.

Completing the group is Antonio Dias, Mourinho’s equivalent of fitness guru Antonio Pintus. Dias is viewed as the architect behind the high-intensity, fast-paced style Mourinho’s teams have increasingly embraced in recent years.

One important appointment still unresolved

Several significant decisions remain on Mourinho’s agenda, including the final addition to his coaching staff.

The Portuguese manager traditionally likes having a respected former Real Madrid figure serve as a bridge between the coaching staff, players and club hierarchy. During his first spell, Aitor Karanka filled that role effectively.

This time, former Madrid defender Pepe has emerged as a leading candidate. However, no final decision has been made. Mourinho views the position as critically important and wants to take his time.

He is looking for someone with authority and credibility, but not a figure who draws too much attention. Mourinho wants clear lines of responsibility, with no confusion about who ultimately leads the project. As always, the final accountability rests with him.

The unfinished business driving Mourinho

Mourinho returns to Madrid highly motivated by the opportunity to write a second chapter at the club.

His first tenure is remembered fondly from a competitive standpoint. He challenged what many consider the greatest Barcelona team in history and won a LaLiga title, a Copa del Rey and a Spanish Super Cup.

Yet one objective remains unfinished.

Despite reaching three consecutive Champions League semifinals, Mourinho never managed to lift Europe’s biggest club trophy with Real Madrid. That lingering disappointment has become one of his greatest motivations.

Winning the Champions League with Madrid would give him a third European crown with a third different club, after previous triumphs with Porto and Inter Milan.

The profile of player Mourinho wants

Mourinho has already communicated the type of players he wants the club to pursue.

His ideal recruits are hungry, hard-working competitors willing to run, fight and sacrifice for the team. He values character and commitment above individual ego.

At the same time, he must make important decisions regarding the current squad, identifying players who are no longer part of his plans and defining roles for emerging talents such as Thiago Pitarch.

Real Madrid is also determined to bring back Nico Paz. The club can re-sign the midfielder for around $10.4 million despite his market value being estimated at $58 million.

While a superstar signing such as Michael Olise would undoubtedly strengthen the attack, Mourinho has not pushed for a major addition in that area.

Beyond the arrivals of a center back and a right back, the Portuguese coach has requested further reinforcements at left back and in midfield. His wishlist includes one creative playmaker and one defensive midfielder as he continues shaping the next version of Real Madrid.

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