José Mourinho ‘could move’ to Real Madrid under Benfica clause | OneFootball

Hours before Benfica face Real Madrid, AS reports that Spanish coverage has revived debate over José Mourinho’s future, linking him with a return to the Bernabéu.

The report adds he is viewed as a consensus option around Florentino Pérez to succeed Álvaro Arbeloa, whose position has weakened since Madrid’s defeat by Benfica. It also says a clause in his Benfica contract could permit a summer move.

Mourinho signed for Benfica on 18 September 2025 during the election campaign, and he explained that the clause was designed to protect the club’s newly elected president. At season’s end, both parties have 10 days to decide on continuity.

If that window closes, the deal renews automatically by one year. The report also states Real Madrid are not currently in Mourinho’s plans, with the 63-year-old focused on Benfica and satisfied with the project.

Benfica host Madrid in the first leg of the play-off for a Champions League last-16 place on Tuesday 17 February at 20:00 at Estádio da Luz. François Letexier will referee. The match is live on Sport TV with commentary on Benfica FM.

Source: Glorioso 1904