José Mourinho to Real Madrid? The date that could shape the club’s next move is fast approaching
Mourinho is under contract with Benfica for 2026-27, but his future could take a different path this summer.
José Mourinho has been deliberately placing himself back within Real Madrid’s orbit. While there has been no concrete move from the Spanish giants, the coach has made it clear he is far from locked in at Benfica. In fact, he has already mapped out two potential ways to walk away from the Lisbon club.
Sources close to Mourinho tell AS that he wants his future resolved no later than May 24. The former Chelsea manager is weighing three possible scenarios. For now, he has done his part with Benfica, submitting a detailed dossier outlining his conditions to remain in charge for the 2026-27 season, the final year of his current contract.
Pressure shifts to Benfica president Rui Costa
The next move belongs to Rui Costa, Benfica’s president and the man who brought Mourinho in, a decision that also carried political implications within the club.
One scenario is continuity. That would mean offering Mourinho a contract extension with a high release clause, effectively tying both sides together long term. So far, however, Costa has shown little urgency to commit. He has avoided giving any clear answers when pressed publicly about Mourinho’s future.
Mourinho explores his exit options
Mourinho, never one to sit back and wait, is actively exploring his leverage.
The first possibility is that Benfica opts for an immediate coaching change, something that cannot be ruled out in Portugal. The second would come into play if a club Mourinho finds appealing, whether Real Madrid or another suitor, offers him a job.
In that case, the decision would be his. Mourinho can trigger an exit clause for a relatively small fee. Notably, it is the same amount Benfica would owe him if the club decides to part ways this summer. A two-way escape hatch that gives both sides flexibility.
A clear deadline in May
For Mourinho, timing is everything. He has no intention of entering June without clarity on where he will be coaching next season.
He has informed Benfica that he will wait, at most, until one week after the Portuguese league season ends. Benfica closes its campaign on May 16 with a trip to Estoril, setting up a decision window that runs into late May.
That timeline is no coincidence. Both the Premier League and LaLiga wrap up the weekend of May 23-24, Mourinho’s two primary target markets.