Real Madrid target Jose Mourinho return to replace Alvaro Arbeloa
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez has identified Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho as his primary candidate to replace under-pressure manager Alvaro Arbeloa this summer.
The Spanish giants are preparing to enter the managerial market following a disappointing run of form under their current boss.
Arbeloa, who was promoted from the club’s B-team to succeed Xabi Alonso in January, has managed just 14 victories in 23 matches across all competitions.
Los Blancos now face the prospect of a rare season without silverware, prompting Perez to personally oversee the recruitment process.
Internal opposition over Vinicius Jr comments
Reports suggest Perez has his heart set on reuniting with the 63-year-old tactician, 13 years after his initial departure from the Bernabeu.
However, the president is expected to face significant internal pushback regarding the potential appointment.
The former Chelsea and Manchester United boss recently drew fierce criticism for his stance regarding an incident between Vinicius Jr and Gianluca Prestianni.
He controversially accused the Brazilian winger of goading his Benfica midfielder, despite Prestianni later receiving a six-match ban for homophobic abuse.
Benfica contract and alternative targets
The Portuguese manager is currently under contract in Lisbon until 2027, but a release clause would allow him to depart at the end of the current campaign.
His side remain unbeaten in the Liga Portugal this season, yet they sit seven points behind leaders Porto in the table.
During his first stint in the Spanish capital, the outspoken coach secured one La Liga title and a Copa del Rey before departing amid a highly publicised fallout with club captain Iker Casillas.
Should a move for their primary target fail to materialise, the reigning European champions have formulated a contingency shortlist.
Mauricio Pochettino and outgoing France national team manager Didier Deschamps are both considered viable alternatives.
Former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp has also been linked with the vacancy, though the German has publicly dismissed those reports.
