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Jun 12, 2026
Analyzed by GPT OSS 120B

Jose Mourinho Appointed Real Madrid Coach on Three‑Year Deal

AI Summary
Real Madrid have hired 63‑year‑old Jose Mourinho on a three‑year contract starting July 13, 2026, after his departure from Benfica. The move follows President Florentino Perez’s re‑election and aims to revive a trophy‑dry spell for the 15‑time Champions League winners.

Lead: Mourinho’s Return to the Santiago Bernabeu

Jose Mourinho has been appointed as the new manager of Real Madrid on a three‑year contract, effective July 13, 2026, the start of preseason.

Mourinho Signs Three‑Year Deal to Return to Real Madrid

The club confirmed the signing in a statement on Thursday, noting that the 63‑year‑old Portuguese tactician leaves Benfica to re‑join the Spanish giants after a 13‑year absence.

  • Contract length: 3 years
  • Start date: 13 July 2026
  • Previous Real stint: 2010‑2013, delivering a La Liga title, Copa del Rey and Supercopa.

Contract Length and Historical Success Metrics

During his first spell, Mourinho secured 1 La Liga, 1 Copa del Rey and 1 Spanish Super Cup. Real Madrid, a 15‑time Champions League winner, have missed the quarter‑finals for two consecutive seasons and finished the 2025‑26 campaign without a trophy.

What Mourinho’s Return Means for Real Madrid’s Title Hopes

The appointment follows President Florentino Perez’s re‑election, a move aimed at ending a “humiliating” domestic finish where Barcelona clinched the league in an El Clasico victory – the first league decision by the rivals in 94 years.

Forecast for Real Madrid’s 2026‑27 Season Under Mourinho

Analysts expect a tactical overhaul and a renewed focus on the European Cup, with Perez pledging to “fight until the end to achieve the 16th European Cup.” The gamble on Mourinho could restore Real’s dominance domestically and in Europe if the squad adapts quickly to his demanding style.