Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’ | OneFootball

Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’ | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: Madrid Universal

Madrid Universal

·18 August 2026

Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’

Article image:Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’

Jose Mourinho became the first to take part in Real Madrid’s official presentation of their new signings this summer.

As already reported, the Merengues have decided to do away with grand presentations with fans and media and instead opted for a low-key event.


OneFootball Videos


As such, the coach was accompanied only by Florentino Perez during the ceremony.

There were no family members or media present. Real Madrid TV was the only outlet to provide images of the event, and it did not broadcast Mourinho’s presentation live.

A private welcome for Mourinho

Mourinho and Perez watched a video featuring the coach from his first spell on the Real Madrid bench, along with footage from this pre-season.

Article image:Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’

Mourinho’s official presentation. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

That was followed by the formal signing of his three-year contract, a photograph of Mourinho holding a shirt with his name on the back, and the presentation of gifts from the president.

The Portuguese coach received a replica of the stadium, a watch and a shirt bearing his name.

Honorary president Jose Martínez Pirri also attended the ceremony. After a final embrace, that was it for Mourinho’s presentation.

Mourinho speaks out

Following the act of presentation, Mourinho briefly spoke with Real Madrid TV, wherein he delivered a short but touching message to the Madridistas.

“It’s like coming home. It’s even better than the first time I came. That time it was the feeling of reaching the top as a coach. Now it’s more emotional,” he said.

“I am one of you (Madridistas). Always have been, ever since I left.”

Article image:Mourinho’s first words after Real Madrid presentation: ‘It’s like coming home, even better than first time’

A low-key presentation ceremony. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

“Working for Real Madrid means a great deal to me. The responsibility of working for the club is paramount and something everyone at Valdebebas should feel,” Mourinho added.

Continuing, the manager noted: “Words aren’t enough… because it’s like a mission . It’s not about being worried about myself or whether I’m going to earn a lot or a little.

“I’m here to help everyone be better: players, staff… To create a culture of work, responsibility, ambition , and something I know well, which is the responsibility and honour of working for Real Madrid. I really like this concept.”

Although he has been in charge of the team since June, he was only formally presented today, behind closed doors and without supporters, family members or the media.

The remaining Real Madrid signings will now have their presentations in the same format. They will take place privately, without media coverage, although the players may be accompanied by their families.

View publisher imprint