Mourinho chosen as Real Madrid’s next manager

According to Marca, Real Madrid have already decided that José Mourinho will take over as manager for the 2026–27 season, with the official confirmation likely to arrive once La Liga concludes on 23 May. The club has endured a turbulent end to the campaign, falling out of the title race and facing mounting issues on and off the pitch. Florentino Pérez’s recent press conference, in which he announced upcoming presidential elections, only intensified the sense of uncertainty.

With Álvaro Arbeloa set to depart, several names circulated, but the board reportedly believes Mourinho is the only candidate capable of restoring authority and stabilising a tense dressing room. The Portuguese coach is expected to activate a release clause of around €3 million to leave Benfica after his final match. He will also influence squad planning, overseeing both departures and signings as he prepares for a second spell in Madrid thirteen years after his first.