Real Madrid President Opens Talks for Mourinho's Return

Jose Mourinho Set for Real Madrid Comeback?

According to Главком: Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has already initiated negotiations to bring Jose Mourinho back to the club. The 63-year-old Portuguese coach, currently managing Benfica, is the top candidate to take over the Madrid side. Mourinho's contract with Benfica includes a €3 million release clause. He previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, securing La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup. Currently, the team is led by Alvaro Arbeloa, who was appointed in January 2026 following Xabi Alonso's resignation. A potential return of Mourinho could provide much-needed stability after a period of coaching changes.

Football World Cup Updates

In other sports news, Ukraine lost 1–3 to Sweden in the playoff semifinal for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ponomarenko scored for Ukraine in the 90+1 minute, while Viktor Gyökeres netted a hat-trick for Sweden in the 6th, 51st, and 72nd minutes.

The 2026 World Cup group stage draw has also been revealed:

• Group A: Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, Czech Republic
• Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Qatar, Switzerland
• Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
• Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Turkey
• Group E: Germany, Curacao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador
• Group F: Netherlands, Japan, Sweden, Tunisia
• Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand
• Group H: Spain, Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Uruguay
• Group I: France, Senegal, Iraq, Norway
• Group J: Argentina, Algeria, Austria, Jordan
• Group K: Portugal, DR Congo, Uzbekistan, Colombia
• Group L: England, Croatia, Ghana, Panama

The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed sides, will advance to the Round of 16.

Mourinho's potential return could be a pivotal move for Real Madrid as they seek consistency following a turbulent coaching period. His prior success at the club offers hope for fans. Meanwhile, Ukraine's defeat to Sweden in the playoff semifinal presents another hurdle for the national team, which must now rethink its strategy for future competitions.

As discussions progress regarding Mourinho's potential return, it's essential to consider the current situation at Benfica, where uncertainty looms over his future. For a deeper insight into the challenges he faces and the implications of a move back to Madrid, read more about the uncertain prospects for Mourinho at Benfica.