José Mourinho's return to Real Madrid is edging closer, according to reports from Portugal and Spain. The Special One, currently at the helm of Benfica, is the prime target for Florentino Pérez after recent dressing-room tensions at the Bernabéu. The alleged altercation between Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni has convinced the Real Madrid president that a strong personality is needed to restore order.
Portuguese newspaper A Bola claims that Real Madrid are ready to take concrete steps to bring Mourinho back. The Portuguese coach still has a year left on his contract with Benfica, but Los Blancos are prepared to pay the €3 million release clause to secure his services in the coming weeks. Confidence is high in the Iberian Peninsula that the operation will succeed, with Benfica already considering potential successors.
The leading candidate to replace Mourinho at Benfica is Marco Silva. The Fulham manager is out of contract and has an excellent relationship with Benfica’s sporting director, Mario Branco. This connection could facilitate negotiations and accelerate the process. Meanwhile, Mourinho is closely monitoring developments in Madrid, and the lure of returning to the Santiago Bernabéu is proving irresistible.
Other names are also circulating for the Benfica job. Ruben Amorim, who recently left Sporting Lisbon for a difficult stint at Manchester United, is still highly regarded in Portugal for his previous work. He could be a forward-thinking choice for Benfica president Rui Costa. Alternatively, Filipe Luís, the former Flamengo and Atlético Madrid defender, is gaining support within the Benfica hierarchy. The Brazilian has finished his spell at Flamengo and is keen to start a European coaching career. His tactical approach has impressed some directors, though no formal negotiations have begun.
Mourinho's potential return to Real Madrid would mark a dramatic second spell at the club. He previously led Los Blancos to a La Liga title in 2012, but his tenure ended amid internal conflicts. Now, with the squad in need of discipline and a strong hand, Pérez believes Mourinho is the man to bring stability back to Valdebebas.
As the story develops, all eyes are on Lisbon and Madrid. Benfica are preparing for life after Mourinho, while Real Madrid await the green light to trigger the release clause. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the Special One returns to the dugout at the Bernabéu.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.com - Calcio.