José Mourinho Officially Leaves Benfica
· Yahoo Sports
Real Madrid’s expected appointment of José Mourinho is entering its final stages.
Benfica officially announced on Thursday that Mourinho has stepped down as head coach after Real Madrid informed the Portuguese club of its intention to activate the manager’s release clause. While Madrid have yet to make an official announcement, the move is considered a matter of timing rather than uncertainty.
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A Benfica SAD comunicou à CMVM que o Real Madrid CF formalizou a intenção de contratar José Mourinho pelo valor de 15 milhões de euros, tendo o treinador dado o seu acordo.
— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) June 9, 2026
Obrigado, José Mourinho. pic.twitter.com/KXZ6niXRWo
The Portuguese coach is set to begin his second stint at the Santiago Bernabéu, more than a decade after his first spell ended in 2013. His return comes at a pivotal moment for the club following two disappointing seasons that ended without major silverware and ultimately triggered a change on the bench.
With Mourinho expected to sign a three-year contract, attention is already shifting toward the construction of his squad. Early indications suggest that strengthening the defensive unit will be among the club’s primary objectives this summer.
During his presidential campaign, Florentino Pérez publicly promised reinforcements in defense, with Ibrahima Konaté and Denzel Dumfries among the names highlighted. Real Madrid are also expected to pursue a left-back, with several high-profile options reportedly under consideration as the club seeks to rebuild its back line.
The prospect of Mourinho’s return has generated a mixture of excitement and skepticism among supporters. His first spell at Madrid helped end Barcelona’s domestic dominance and delivered a record-breaking La Liga title, but it was also marked by controversy and intense pressure. Few figures in modern football provoke stronger reactions, and his return is certain to dominate headlines.
Although no presentation date has been confirmed, Mourinho is expected to be unveiled before preseason preparations begin in mid-July. Until then, only the formalities remain.
Before departing Benfica, Mourinho released a farewell message thanking the club and those he worked alongside during his time in Portugal.
“I thank president Rui Costa for the opportunity he gave me to work for Benfica. Representing this club was an honor and a privilege,” Mourinho said.
The veteran coach also expressed his appreciation to Benfica’s staff and players, praising their professionalism and dedication while wishing them success in the future.