Key Takeaways:
- On Tuesday, Real Madrid will encounter Jose Mourinho’s Benfica in the opening leg of their Champions League play-off tie
- Benfica secured a 4-2 victory over Los Blancos three weeks ago at the Estadio da Luz
- Jose Mourinho’s Portugal contract reportedly includes a clause permitting him to depart without penalty within 10 days after the season ends
Play-Off Showdown: Real Madrid Seek Redemption in Lisbon
Real Madrid are set to cross paths once more with ex-manager Jose Mourinho on Tuesday, as the Spanish giants take on Benfica in the initial leg of their Champions League play-off round tie. Benfica emerged victorious by 4-2 in their previous encounter just three weeks ago at the Estadio da Luz, and Carlo Ancelotti’s side will be eager to avenge that defeat on Portuguese soil.
🚨 Jose Mourinho is happy with his current job at Benfica, but a call from Real Madrid could change everything.
He has a clause in his contract that could allow him to change clubs but the Real Madrid board is not talking about him now..
— @diarioas pic.twitter.com/miwaelshvO
— Madrid Universal (@MadridUniversal) February 16, 2026
Mourinho’s Enduring Reputation at the Bernabeu
Mourinho orchestrated a commendable win for Benfica in their recent meeting, demonstrating his trademark tactical acumen. Despite the mixed fortunes experienced during his earlier spell in Madrid between 2010 and 2013, club executives continue to hold Mourinho in high regard. This enduring admiration from the Real Madrid hierarchy has fuelled fresh speculation about the prospect of the Portuguese manager returning for a second tenure at the Bernabeu.
Clause in Portugal Contract Could Ease Return
According to a report in Diario AS, a provision embedded within Mourinho’s contract with Portugal grants him the freedom to exit without penalty, provided he leaves within 10 days following the conclusion of the season. This clause could potentially facilitate a return to Real Madrid should the club decide to approach him in the near future.
Managerial Options Under Review at Real Madrid
With Alvaro Arbeloa in charge until the end of the season, Real Madrid are actively evaluating several managerial contenders. The ideal appointment remains Jurgen Klopp, but with his immediate return to top-level management looking improbable, Mourinho emerges as a plausible alternative. His adeptness at managing high-profile figures is seen as a key advantage, particularly in light of Xabi Alonso’s unsuccessful tenure in this aspect. For now, however, Real Madrid have yet to initiate formal discussions with Mourinho’s representatives.
Looking Ahead: High Stakes and Uncertain Futures
The decision over the next managerial direction remains crucial for Los Blancos. Arbeloa still has an opportunity to extend his stay beyond the current campaign, though this will likely hinge upon success in either La Liga or the Champions League – outcomes which remain far from certain. As the campaign unfolds, Real Madrid’s leadership will be closely monitoring developments both on and off the pitch before making any definitive moves.
