Real Madrid have already taken steps to bring José Mourinho back, with Benfica now aware that the Portuguese coach is close to signing for the Spanish giants, according to reports. The situation has shifted from “impossible” to a serious option at the Bernabéu after super-agent Jorge Mendes presented Mourinho’s name to the club.
Spanish newspaper AS revealed that Mourinho himself initiated the move by offering his services to Real Madrid. The club’s hierarchy now view the “Special One” as the only viable candidate to rebuild the team and restore order to a dressing room that has been in turmoil.
Benfica, led by president Rui Costa, is fully aware of Mourinho’s likely departure and has already begun searching for a replacement. Former Manchester United manager Rúben Amorim has emerged as a preferred candidate.
Mourinho’s release clause stands at €3 million, a sum Real Madrid consider acceptable given the urgent need to address the team’s current crisis.
Although no formal agreement or signed contract exists yet, both Mourinho and Real Madrid are well aware of each other’s requirements and are waiting for the end of the current season to finalize the deal.
There is a strong belief within the club that the current Benfica manager is the right man to take control of a dressing room that has gone out of hand. Recent months have seen relations between Real Madrid and Jorge Mendes return to normal, which facilitated the offer for Mourinho’s return. This development comes alongside reports that the club rejected a move for Bernardo Silva.