José Mourinho ‘to join’ Real Madrid, Benfica exit not yet communicated | OneFootball

José Mourinho’s Benfica future remains in flux, with no formal notice of his departure given to Rui Costa. The Portuguese coach is waiting on a green light from Real Madrid, and the timing appears tied to events in the Spanish capital.

Record writes that Mourinho has chosen to join Real Madrid, though he has not yet informed Benfica’s president. If his exit, at the coach’s request, is confirmed, Benfica expect to receive around seven million euros.

The drawn-out process is linked to Real Madrid’s early elections. Florentino Pérez has called a vote, with candidate lists due by Saturday, 23 May. If he is the only name on the ballot, he would be automatically re-elected, clearing the way for Mourinho to be presented.

A businessman is expected to stand, which would force elections within 15 days of the list deadline, no later than 9 June. Even so, Mourinho plans to travel to Madrid immediately after Real Madrid’s final La Liga match on 23 May.

There are currently no other official candidates, though Enrique Riquelme has said he is considering running. Meanwhile in Seixal, Mourinho is understood to have cleared his office and said farewell to staff at the training centre.

Inside Benfica, his possible departure is not considered taboo and is being handled without drama.

Source: Glorioso 1904