Jose Mourinho is in final negotiations to return as Real Madrid's head coach, 13 years after his first Bernabeu tenure. The 63-year-old, currently managing Benfica, is the sole candidate Real Madrid is actively pursuing. Alvaro Arbeloa, who replaced Xabi Alonso in January, faces replacement as Florentino Perez revived interest in Mourinho just days after Alonso's exit. Mourinho, who led Real to La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup titles during his 2010-2013 stint, has remained silent on his future since Benfica's last match of the season against Estoril Praia.

His two-year contract with Benfica ends in 2025, but he declined to discuss departure plans post-match, stating, "I'll address my future after Monday.".