Real Madrid has officially announced the appointment of José Mourinho as the first team’s new head coach.
The club’s Board of Directors made the decision during a meeting held on Thursday, June 11, chaired by club president Florentino Pérez.
The Portuguese manager returns to the Santiago Bernabéu for a second spell in charge, having previously led the team to major successes including a La Liga title and a Copa del Rey. According to the club’s statement, Mourinho has signed a three-season contract that runs until June 30, 2029.
“The Board of Directors of Real Madrid C.F., meeting today, Thursday, June 11, and presided over by Florentino Pérez, has agreed to appoint José Mourinho as the first team’s head coach for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2029.” The brief statement reads.
Mourinho will officially link up with the squad on July 13, coinciding with the start of preseason training.
The move marks a notable homecoming for one of football’s most experienced and charismatic coaches. Mourinho brings a wealth of tactical knowledge and a proven track record at the highest level.
Madrid triggered the €15 million exit clause for Mourinho at Benfica, marking a sensational return to the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, 13 years after his initial departure from the club.
He had returned to Benfica on September 18, 2025, three weeks after being dismissed by Turkish club Fenerbahçe. During his stint at Benfica, the club became the first undefeated team in history to finish outside the top two in a league with over 20 matchdays, ending the 2025–26 Primeira Liga season third despite recording zero losses.
His arrival at the Santiago Bernabéu follows the mid-season departure of Xabi Alonso and the announcement of the departure of first-team coach Álvaro Arbeloa on Tuesday after a tumultuous, trophy-less season.
The club’s management selected the veteran Portuguese tactician reportedly to restore firm discipline and structure to a star-studded dressing room. Mourinho famously led Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, capturing a historic 100-point La Liga title and a Copa del Rey trophy against a legendary Barcelona side.
