The managerial merry-go-round at Santiago Bernabéu has taken a sensational turn. José Mourinho has moved into the spotlight as a serious candidate to retake the reins at Real Madrid following direct talks with club president Florentino Perez.
According to reports, Mourinho and Perez engaged in a video conference lasting approximately one hour to discuss a potential return. The meeting reportedly included Mourinho's long-term representative, Jorge Mendes, though the super-agent was said to be acting primarily as an observer.
Mourinho, who is currently managing Benfica under a contract that runs until 2027, has reportedly laid out a series of non-negotiable conditions. These demands are not centered on salary but on total control: absolute sporting control, a restructure of the medical department, and full disciplinary authority over the squad.
The news has polarized the Real Madrid fanbase. Many remember him as the manager who broke Barcelona's dominance and instilled a winning "killer" mentality. However, others remain wary of the baggage, as his first spell ended in a fractured dressing room and public spats with club legends.
Perez is expected to deliver his response next week after weighing Mourinho's structural demands against other candidates like Unai Emery.