Mourinho could be open to Real Madrid return if club makes approach – report | OneFootball

Later this week, Jose Mourinho’s SL Benfica takes on Real Madrid for a second time in a month, after having previously condemned Los Blancos to a 4-2 defeat, forcing them to enter the knockout playoffs in the UEFA Champions League.

The Portuguese tactician spent three years at the Santiago Bernabeu as manager, between 2010 and 2013, and is still cherished and heralded at the club.

As such, links to a potential return, every time there is a sense of instability, have never been far. Mourinho had been touted as a possible candidate this season as well, when Xabi Alonso was destined for the exit doors, but had distanced himself from the rumours.

Mourinho happy at Benfica, but willing to return

Now, though, AS reports that while Mourinho is happy at Benfica, a call from Real Madrid could change things as he would be willing to return to the club.

As per the Spanish outlet, there is a clause in Mourinho’s contract at Benfica which places him within reach of Real Madrid, although it is not currently considered an option by the Merengues.

The Portuguese coach, who has signed a two-season deal in Lisbon, can choose not to continue at Benfica without any financial penalty during the ten days following the club’s final match of the current season.

Mourinho would be open to Real Madrid return. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

He would be able to join any team without paying a release clause, which could bring him closer to Real Madrid or to any club that might require his services, or at least facilitate such a move.

Mourinho is enjoying a positive return to his country. He is comfortable coaching Benfica, spending his time with his family and closed ones in Lisbon.

While there have been talks of him being handed the Portugal national team job after the World Cup later this year, the report states that it is not a possibility at this point.

As such, Mourinho intends to continue at Benfica and build a project more aligned with his style of play for next season. However, a call from Real Madrid could change everything.

Even though he has drifted apart from club president Florentino Perez in recent years, Mourinho still carries the club in his heart. And, the two will meet soon, either in the first leg of the knockout playoffs in Lisbon this week or in the reverse fixture at the Bernabeu.

For now, Real Madrid are not considering the option of bringing Mourinho back. But if they were to seek it, the Portuguese would be open to returning.