As the 2025–26 season draws to a close, speculation regarding the future of the Real Madrid bench has reached fever pitch. Reports as of April 28, 2026, confirm that José Mourinho has emerged as the preferred candidate for club president Florentino Pérez to take charge at the Santiago Bernabéu this summer.
The Current Situation
Following a challenging campaign under interim manager Álvaro Arbeloa—who is expected to depart at the season’s end—Real Madrid is looking for a proven, high-profile leader to revitalize the club after two consecutive seasons without major silverware.
- Pérez’s Preferred Choice: Florentino Pérez is personally leading the search for the new manager. While there isn’t unanimous support within the entire Madrid boardroom, the president has identified Mourinho as the ideal profile to stabilize the squad and spearhead a new project.
- The Competition: Mourinho is reportedly one of four candidates currently under consideration by the club’s hierarchy.
- Benfica’s Stance: While Benfica is eager to retain the Portuguese manager—who has remained unbeaten in Liga Portugal this season—they are aware of the contractual reality. Mourinho’s current deal contains a €6 million gross break clause, which must be activated by the end of May if Madrid decides to move forward.
“Unfinished Business” in Madrid
Mourinho, who previously managed Los Blancos between 2010 and 2013, has reportedly expressed openness to the idea of a return. During his first spell, he won the La Liga title, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup.
While the UEFA Champions League title eluded him during that time, supporters of a return often point to his deep familiarity with the club’s culture and his proven ability to command elite dressing rooms.
As the season enters its final stretch, all eyes are on Pérez, who is expected to make a final decision regarding the club’s direction once the current domestic campaign concludes.
