As Arbeloa struggles and the squad faces ‘ego’ concerns, reports from Spain suggest the Benfica boss is Pérez’s ultimate choice to restore discipline at the Bernabéu.
The managerial search at Real Madrid has taken an unexpected and nostalgic turn. Following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso and the disastrous debut of Álvaro Arbeloa, prominent commentator Alfredo Relaño has revealed that President Florentino Pérez is considering a sensational return for José Mourinho.
The Only Manager Who Satisfied Pérez Speaking on the popular radio program ‘El Partidazo de COPE’, Relaño claimed that despite several elite names being linked to the job, Mourinho remains the one coach Pérez truly trusts to handle a high-pressure environment.
“Florentino Pérez’s ultimate idea is to bring José Mourinho back,” Relaño stated. “Mourinho was the only one Florentino was ever truly satisfied with. I wouldn’t be surprised if he brings him back.”
Benfica Struggles and ‘The Stir’ Currently managing Benfica in Portugal, Mourinho’s second stint in Lisbon has hit a rough patch. Despite a strong start in September 2025, the team has recently suffered two consecutive defeats. Relaño even suggested that Mourinho’s recent behavior in Portugal might be a calculated move to facilitate an exit: “He’s causing a stir at Benfica, precisely so they’ll fire him.”
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A Legacy of Discipline Mourinho’s previous tenure at the Santiago Bernabéu (2010–2013) was marked by an intense rivalry with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona and a strict tactical discipline. In 178 matches, he secured 128 wins and delivered three major trophies:
- Copa del Rey (2010/11)
- La Liga (2011/12)
- Spanish Super Cup (2012)
With the current Real Madrid squad facing accusations of “lack of commitment” and “tactical incompatibility” between stars like Mbappé and Vinícius Jr., Pérez reportedly believes that only a character like “The Special One” can re-establish the hierarchy at Valdebebas.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
