José Mourinho’s potential return to Real Madrid is gaining momentum. The idea of Mourinho returning to the Bernabéu had been lingering, but now it seems probable.
Mourinho’s Last Visit to the Bernabéu
The last time José Mourinho was at the Santiago Bernabéu, he remained on the team bus. As Benfica manager, he was suspended for a Champions League playoff match. Instead of watching from a prepared media booth, he stayed in the basement, watching on an iPad.
He left the post-match press conference to his assistant, João Tralhão. His next visit, possibly at the end of this season, could see him welcomed as the manager.
Contract Situation and Madrid’s Interest
Mourinho stated that he had received a contract extension offer from Benfica. He claimed he would not consider it until after Benfica’s final game on Sunday. Real Madrid’s season concludes seven days later, and conversations have reportedly taken place regarding his return.
A clause in Mourinho’s contract allows him to leave Benfica within 10 days after the season ends. Florentino Pérez’s call for elections could bring a surprise. However, he is likely to be re-elected unopposed on 24 May, the day Madrid’s season finishes.
Warm Memories and Faded Bad Moments
Before the Benfica tie, Mourinho mentioned he hadn’t been inside the Bernabéu since his departure in May 2013. There was excitement and nostalgia surrounding his return. Álvaro Arbeloa referred to him as “uno de noi”, and Mourinho called Arbeloa one of his “kids”.
He spoke fondly of Pérez, saying, “I gave everything to Madrid. My feeling over these years is that Madrid fans feel what I do: respect and affection. But there’s nothing doing with Madrid. I’d like Arbeloa to win the league and stay for many years.”
A Return Seems Imminent
The idea that Mourinho might return had lingered. Mourinho said before the first leg, “I don’t want to feed stories that don’t exist.”
It is set, what seemed impossible probable now. Some things change fast and change back again faster. And yet many have waited a very, very long time for this.