José Mourinho has officially shut down rumors linking him with a sensational return to Real Madrid, insisting that he has had “no contact” from the Spanish giants and remains fully committed to his current project at Benfica.
Speaking on Friday, May 1, 2026, “The Special One” clarified his position following weeks of intense speculation that he was the top candidate to replace Álvaro Arbeloa at the Santiago Bernabéu.
“I Guarantee You”
In a direct address to reporters, Mourinho was firm about his lack of involvement in the Madrid vacancy:
- The Denial: “No one from Real Madrid has spoken to me. I can guarantee that,” he told the press. “I’m used to these things after so many years in football, but there is absolutely nothing there.”
- The Contract Factor: Mourinho noted that he still has a year remaining on his contract with Benfica, though reports have noted a “10-day exit window” in his deal that would technically allow him to leave for free at the end of the season.
- Rui Costa’s Stance: Benfica President Rui Costa also dismissed the rumors this week, confirming to Spanish media that he expects Mourinho to continue leading the “Eagles” for the 2026/2027 campaign.
The Madrid Crisis
The rumors gained traction due to a turbulent period for Real Madrid under Álvaro Arbeloa, who took over following the short-lived tenure of Xabi Alonso earlier this year:
- Struggles in La Liga: Real Madrid currently trails rivals FC Barcelona by 11 points with only five matches remaining.
- Champions League Exit: The club’s season took a major hit after being eliminated from the Champions League in the quarter-finals by Bayern Munich.
- The Nostalgia Factor: Mourinho remains a popular figure for a section of the Madridista fanbase, having delivered the 2011–12 La Liga title during the peak of the Guardiola era.
Success at Benfica
Since his “homecoming” to Benfica in September 2025, Mourinho has enjoyed a successful second stint in Lisbon:
- Undefeated Streak: Benfica has remained remarkably competitive, with Mourinho recently boasting that they are the only team in Europe’s top-tier leagues without a loss in their national league this season.
- Champions League Push: His primary focus remains securing a direct qualifying spot for next season’s Champions League, a goal that is currently “in their own hands.”
