Speculation continues regarding a possible return of José Mourinho to Real Madrid, with initial discussions reportedly taking place with the Spanish club. However, any potential second spell at the Santiago Bernabéu is understood to depend on a series of strict conditions set out by the Portuguese manager.
Real Madrid are currently experiencing an unsettled period. Under head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, the team has failed to meet expectations, with reports indicating growing instability within the squad, divisions in the dressing room, and reduced confidence in the coaching structure. The season remains ongoing, yet internal tensions have already become apparent.
Club president Florentino Pérez is said to be considering Mourinho once again as a possible solution to the situation. Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, during which he secured three trophies, strengthening the club’s competitiveness both domestically and in Europe.
Mourinho, currently in charge of Benfica, is reportedly engaged in preliminary discussions with Real Madrid through his agent, Jorge Mendes. According to reporting attributed to Sports Bible, he has presented ten specific conditions for any return.
Conditions reportedly set by Mourinho
| No. | Condition | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minimum two-year contract | Requires long-term commitment rather than a short-term appointment |
| 2 | Autonomy from player influence | Decisions must not be affected by individual players’ pressure or opinions |
| 3 | Full control of squad | Complete authority over team selection and player management |
| 4 | Own coaching staff | Intends to bring his preferred technical team |
| 5 | Change in fitness setup | Reportedly seeks removal of current fitness coach Antonio Pintus |
| 6 | Direct medical oversight | Wants closer control over injury management and medical operations |
| 7 | Exclusion of seven players | Has identified at least seven squad members outside his plans (not disclosed) |
| 8 | Limited media role | Prefers to act strictly as coach, with media responsibilities handled elsewhere |
| 9 | Direct link with president | Wishes to communicate solely with Florentino Pérez, bypassing other officials |
| 10 | Reduced pre-season tours | Prefers controlled training schedules over extensive commercial tours |
The conditions indicate a strong desire for comprehensive managerial authority, particularly over squad structure, medical coordination, and technical operations. Mourinho’s stance reflects a preference for centralised decision-making and reduced external influence on sporting matters.
During his previous tenure at Real Madrid, Mourinho won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup, and played a significant role in restoring the club’s competitive presence in European football.
Any potential return now depends on whether the club’s hierarchy is willing to accommodate the stated conditions, particularly those concerning structural control and operational independence. Discussions remain at an early stage, and no formal agreement has been announced.