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José Mourinho has responded directly to growing speculation linking him with a sensational return to Real Madrid as Alvaro Arbeloa’s replacement.
The legendary Portuguese coach, currently in charge of Benfica, also took a moment to reflect on his emotional tenure at Roma, describing the Italian capital as the standout setting of his illustrious career.
Perez drives the pursuit
Amid intense reports that the 15-time European champions are keen on a reunion, Mourinho has played down the rumors by focusing on his current project.
He is currently in charge of Benfica, but reports suggest Florentino Perez is pursuing his former manager to restore stability to a side that has struggled under Arbeloa.
When pressed on links to Real Madrid, the ‘Special One’ remained tight-lipped about a return to La Liga.
Mourinho breaks silence on Madrid links
Rather than fan the flames over another stint in the Spanish capital, the 63-year-old insisted his focus remains on the job in Lisbon.
“My next goal is to bring Benfica back to the Champions League,” he stated in an interview with Il Giornaleseemingly cool talk of an immediate departure, despite reports of a manageable break clause in his contract with the Portuguese giants.
The response comes amid warnings from former Los Blancos star Guti, who suggested Mourinho is no longer in his prime and Perez should look elsewhere for a tactical spark.
Roma remains the ‘best place’ for Jose
After reflecting on his storied career, which includes trophy-laden spells at Chelsea, Inter and Real Madrid, Mourinho made a surprising admission about his time in the Italian capital.
Despite being sacked by Roma in January 2024, he holds the club and its fanbase in the highest regard.
“For me it has been the best place in my career. I have never felt such an incredible environment around a football team. The Olimpico was always full,” revealed Mourinho.
The Portuguese manager guided Roma to Conference League glory in 2022 and the Europa League final the following year, creating a bond with supporters he believes is second to none.
He added of their struggles since his exit: “Not even when I won the Champions League did I see scenes like them. My Roma is finished. I won’t say anything else. In fact, only one thing. Nobody should blame the Roma fans for not winning. The Roma fans are the ones who support the team and nobody should touch them.”
Pressure building at Arbeloa
As Mourinho focuses on Benfica, pressure continues to mount at the Santiago Bernabéu.
Arbeloa was appointed in charge of the first team in January following the departure of Xabi Alonso, but he is under intense pressure following a poor run of results and the hierarchy are reportedly looking for an elite figure to navigate a transition period.
While Mourinho is a prime candidate for Perez, he is not the only name in the hat for the job.
Other high-profile managers such as Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni, USMNT boss Mauricio Pochettino and Stuttgart’s Sebastian Hoeness have all been linked with the post.
Should Mourinho return, it would mark his first stint in Madrid since 2010-2013, a period defined by his intense rivalry with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.
