Real Madrid have announced the appointment of Jose Mourinho as manager for a second spell at the club. The 63-year-old has joined on a three-year contract after leaving Portuguese side Benfica.
Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, a period that included winning La Liga in the 2011-12 season and the Copa del Rey. He also guided the club to three consecutive Champions League semi-finals during that time, establishing himself as one of Europe's top managers.
The Portuguese coach arrives at the Bernabéu following a turbulent season for the club. Real Madrid's campaign was marked by significant internal difficulties, including player unrest that contributed to the dismissal of previous manager Xabi Alonso in January. Álvaro Arbeloa took over as interim head coach but was unable to reverse the club's fortunes. Real Madrid exited the Champions League at the quarter-final stage to Bayern Munich and finished second in La Liga behind Barcelona. The season was further affected by squad harmony issues, with midfielder Fede Valverde requiring hospital treatment for stitches following a confrontation with teammate Aurélien Tchouaméni.
Mourinho's appointment represents Real Madrid's attempt to restore stability and success to the club. The manager brings extensive experience at the highest level, having won league titles in Portugal, England, Italy, and Spain. His most recent club was Benfica, where he achieved success in European competition. Before joining Benfica last September, Mourinho had managed Roma, where he won the Europa Conference League in 2022.
The announcement also confirms the departure of Arbeloa from his role at the club. The former Real Madrid defender, who played under Mourinho during his first spell at the Bernabéu, took on the interim position following Ancelotti's exit but was ultimately unable to secure the permanent role.
Real Madrid remains one of world football's most successful clubs, holding a record 15 European Cup titles. The club's hierarchy clearly believes Mourinho's proven track record and experience make him the right choice to lead the team back to competing for major honours.
The appointment marks a significant moment in the managerial merry-go-round, with other clubs also reshaping their coaching structures. Marco Silva has agreed to replace Mourinho at Benfica, while Martin O'Neill has been confirmed as Celtic's permanent manager following his success in winning the Scottish Premiership and Cup double.