Real Madrid presidential drama could delay Jose Mourinho announcement | OneFootball

What appeared to be an almost completed return for Jose Mourinho to Real Madrid may now face an unexpected delay because of growing uncertainty surrounding the club’s presidential elections.

As explained by Mundo Deportivo, the possible candidacy of Spanish businessman Enrique Riquelme could significantly alter the timeline regarding Mourinho’s official appointment as Real Madrid manager.

The Portuguese coach is believed to have already reached a broad agreement with Florentino Perez to take charge of the club ahead of next season. 

In fact, reports suggest the deal was practically finalised earlier this week, although the final contract remains unsigned.

However, the emergence of a potential presidential election battle may now force Real Madrid to postpone any official announcement.

A lot is happening at Real Madrid right now. (Photo by Carlos Rodrigues/Getty Images)

Riquelme recently revealed that he has already secured the financial guarantees required to formally enter the race against Perez, while also teasing that “there will be news in the coming days.”

These comments have immediately increased tension around the situation inside Madrid.

What’s the story?

According to the report, if Riquelme officially enters the presidential race, the electoral process would likely push back any formal managerial announcement until after voting takes place.

The election could be scheduled for the weekend of June 6 and 7, creating a delay that neither Perez nor Mourinho initially expected.

Despite these circumstances, though, the current agreement between Real Madrid and Mourinho is not believed to be in danger.

Mourinho’s appointment could be delayed. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

On the contrary, Perez sees Mourinho’s return as one of the strongest cards in his potential election campaign, alongside possible summer signings.

The Benfica agreement

Notably, Mourinho currently remains tied to Benfica until 2027 and has agreed to a temporary truce period with the Portuguese side before making a final decision regarding his future.

Hence, if the situation at Real Madrid is delayed by political complications, Mourinho may eventually need to reconsider how long he is willing to wait before deciding whether to accept Benfica’s renewal proposal or commit fully to returning to Madrid.

For now, the agreement itself reportedly remains solid, but what looked like an imminent managerial announcement has suddenly become far more complicated.