José Mourinho has verbally agreed to a two-year contract to rejoin Real Madrid, sources confirm, after weeks of speculation linking him to the Bernabéu. The deal, which awaits a formal signature, will see him leave Benfica with a €7 million ($8M) compensation package. Mourinho has already begun saying goodbye to his current squad.

This marks a stunning reunion for the Portuguese coach, who previously managed Madrid from 2010 to 2013, securing one LaLiga title and two domestic cups in a tense rivalry with Pep Guardiola's Barcelona. He will replace Álvaro Arbeloa, promoted after Xabi Alonso's sacking, with Arbeloa's future role still unclear. The move comes as Madrid finished 11 points behind Barcelona in LaLiga.

Madrid's decision arrives amid presidential elections, creating uncertainty over the official announcement timeline. Sources also indicate preliminary talks to bring retired legend Toni Kroos back in an undefined role. The club's recent Champions League exit to Bayern Munich and lack of major trophies this season fueled the pursuit of the experienced Mourinho, who just guided Benfica to an unbeaten league campaign but no title.