Key Takeaways:
- Real Madrid are expected to seek a new manager at the end of the season following Arbeloa’s likely departure
- Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, and Didier Deschamps have all been linked but may decline the opportunity
- No contact has yet been made between Real Madrid and Jose Mourinho or his representatives
Managerial Change Looms at the Bernabeu
With the current campaign drawing to a close, Real Madrid are preparing for a significant transition on the touchline. Alvaro Arbeloa, who succeeded Xabi Alonso, has earned the trust of the first team squad. However, the club’s failure to secure either the Champions League or the Copa del Rey, coupled with La Liga now slipping out of reach, means Arbeloa’s contract is widely expected not to be renewed at the season’s end.
🚨 NEW: Jose Mourinho would consider a move to Real Madrid, IF it comes.
However, there has been NO contact till now. @marca ❌ pic.twitter.com/7wJoNbcK8S
— Madrid Zone (@theMadridZone) April 20, 2026
Potential Candidates and a Familiar Name Emerges
The Madrid hierarchy have reportedly begun their search for a new head coach, with names such as Jurgen Klopp, Mauricio Pochettino, and Didier Deschamps emerging as possible successors. Nevertheless, there is growing speculation that these leading candidates could opt against taking charge of the team at the Santiago Bernabeu, raising the prospect of an unexpected managerial comeback.
According to Marca, club president Florentino Perez has become increasingly receptive to the idea of Jose Mourinho returning for a second stint at the helm, despite the Portuguese manager having previously been ruled out of contention by Real Madrid.
Mourinho’s Situation and Madrid’s Approach
Currently managing Benfica, Mourinho will have the option to depart the Portuguese club on a free transfer when the season concludes, and is yet to confirm his future plans. Returning to Madrid may prove irresistible for Mourinho, given his positive standing with the club’s board of directors and his sense of unfinished business in the Spanish capital.
| Manager Linked | Current Club | Contract Situation | Status of Contact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jurgen Klopp | Liverpool | Linked | No confirmed contact |
| Mauricio Pochettino | US National Team | Linked | No confirmed contact |
| Didier Deschamps | France National Team | Linked | No confirmed contact |
| Jose Mourinho | Benfica | Can leave for free end of season | No contact yet |
No Negotiations Initiated with Mourinho
Despite growing rumours, it is understood that Real Madrid have not initiated any discussions with Mourinho or his representatives, nor with the 63-year-old manager himself. With Arbeloa’s future yet to be resolutely determined, it is unlikely that any moves regarding Mourinho will be undertaken until a decision is finalised.
Potential Impact if Mourinho Returns
Should Real Madrid opt to bring Mourinho back, his leadership could provide the injection of motivation needed within the dressing room following two underwhelming seasons. Whether the club ultimately decides to reinstall him at the Bernabeu remains a subject of intense speculation as the summer approaches.
