Mourinho's dramatic return to Real Madrid nears as Benfica scrambles for a replacement
José Mourinho is set to return to Real Madrid as head coach. His appointment will not be confirmed until next Saturday, marking the end of Arbeloa’s interim role. Meanwhile, Benfica faces a coaching vacancy after Mourinho’s likely departure.
Mourinho will meet with Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez to discuss the club’s future plans. He is seeking greater control over team decisions before finalising the move. His formal exit from Benfica must be confirmed by next Tuesday, as his contract includes a second-year option.
Benfica has already lost Argentine forward Ángel Di María, who ended his six-year spell with the club. With Mourinho poised to leave, the Portuguese side is now searching for a replacement. Rúben Amorim remains the top choice for the role, though Marco Silva is also being considered. Mourinho’s return to Madrid comes after weeks of speculation. The club has delayed the announcement until Arbeloa’s interim period concludes this weekend.
Real Madrid will officially unveil Mourinho after Saturday. Benfica, meanwhile, must quickly appoint a new coach before the season resumes. The Portuguese club’s next steps will depend on Mourinho’s final decision in the coming days.
