Jose Mourinho has played down reports linking a return to Real Madrid, dismissing the speculation as entertainment. Media in Spain have suggested a second spell at the Santiago Bernabeu. Madrid are searching for stability after another coaching change. Mourinho, now back at Benfica since September, made the position clear.
Asked directly about the possibility of rejoining Real Madrid, Mourinho gave a vivid response. "Don't count on me for soap operas. There are many good soap operas, but they take too long. Then you miss an episode or two and you lose track. Don't count on me, I don't watch soap operas. " The comments underlined Mourinho’s reluctance to engage with ongoing rumours.
Mourinho previously led Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, during
a highly demanding period. Madrid secured one LaLiga title, one Copa del Rey and one Supercopa de Espana under Mourinho. The spell covered 178 matches in all competitions. Madrid won 128 of those games, giving Mourinho a 72% win rate.
Among Real Madrid coaches this century, only Manuel Pellegrini holds a better win percentage. Pellegrini recorded a 75% win rate during a shorter tenure. Mourinho’s Madrid teams averaged 2.67 goals scored per match. They conceded 0.94 goals per game. For coaches with at least 25 matches, only Rafael Benitez posted superior figures in either category.
The renewed talk around Mourinho followed Real Madrid’s decision regarding Xabi Alonso. Madrid parted company with Alonso last week after seven months in charge. Alvaro Arbeloa stepped up from Castilla after half a season, taking control of the first team. Madrid did not specify Arbeloa's contract length, increasing debate over long-term options.
Reports have connected Real Madrid with several high-profile coaches for future planning. Liverpool icon Jurgen Klopp has been mentioned as a candidate. Former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has also been discussed. Spanish outlets further claimed Mourinho might return, before the latest firm denial. Real Madrid host Monaco on Tuesday, in the penultimate Champions League group fixture. Benfica visit Juventus on Wednesday, with Mourinho focused on that assignment.
