Jose Mourinho has firmly denied any contact with Real Madrid, despite persistent speculation linking him with a return to the Spanish capital. The Portuguese manager, currently at Benfica, addressed the rumours directly during a press conference on Friday.
Mourinho's Firm Denial
Speaking to reporters, the 63-year-old said: "No one from Real Madrid has spoken to me. I can guarantee that. I've been in football for so many years and I'm used to these things... but there's nothing from Real Madrid. I have a year to go on my Benfica contract, and that's all."
Mourinho joined Benfica in September and is under contract until June 2027, though a break clause exists at the end of this season for either party. Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is reportedly keen to bring Mourinho back, but the coach has dismissed any notion of negotiations.
Real Madrid's Turbulent Season
Real Madrid are expected to part ways with Alvaro Arbeloa at the end of the season after a disappointing campaign. The club sacked Xabi Alonso mid-season and promoted under-21s coach Arbeloa, but results have not improved. Bitter rivals Barcelona lead La Liga by 11 points, while Real were eliminated from the Champions League by Bayern Munich in the quarter-finals.
This marks a second consecutive season without a major trophy for Real, prompting inevitable change. However, Mourinho's return is far from certain, partly due to his interest in the Portugal national team job, which has become more attractive with the country set to co-host the 2030 World Cup.
Benfica's Domestic Push
Benfica remain unbeaten in the league this season but trail rivals Porto by seven points. Mourinho is determined to finish the campaign without a defeat and secure second place, guaranteeing automatic qualification for next season's Champions League.
There is no immediate urgency for either party to decide their next move. If Mourinho were to return, he would follow Carlo Ancelotti, who rejoined Real in 2021 six years after leaving.
Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, winning La Liga in 2012 and the Copa del Rey. His abrasive style led to a strained exit, and it remains to be seen whether Perez can overcome internal opposition to bring him back.
