José Mourinho is expected to return to the Santiago Bernabéu this summer, with reports confirming that the Portuguese manager is in advanced talks to take over the reins at the Spanish capital club. After a disappointing 2025/26 season, the incoming boss is planning a major squad overhaul, with as many as nine players set to be offloaded.
Although current manager Raúl González continues to hold the position, Real Madrid have failed to secure any major silverware for the second consecutive season. His departure has long been seen as inevitable. Tensions escalated last week when an internal conflict between Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni during training led to the Uruguayan midfielder suffering a head injury that required stitches, causing him to miss the crucial El Clásico. Madrid subsequently lost 0-2 at Barcelona, allowing their arch-rivals to clinch the La Liga title three games early.
On May 12, multiple Spanish media outlets confirmed that Mourinho and Real Madrid have entered the final stage of negotiations, with a second stint at the Bernabéu imminent. Currently under contract with Benfica until June 2027, Mourinho’s deal includes a €260,000 release clause that can be triggered within 10 days of the season’s end.
According to Spanish outlet ABC, once Mourinho officially takes charge, the squad will undergo a radical transformation. Up to nine players are expected to be sold, loaned out, or released when the current campaign concludes.
**Exit List Details:**
– Veteran defenders David Alaba and Dani Carvajal: Both see their contracts expire this summer and will leave.
– Midfielder Dani Ceballos: No longer in the club’s plans, likely to be transferred.
– Argentine youngster Gastón Mastantuono: Joined from River Plate in 2025 and will be sent on loan for experience next season.
– Eduardo Camavinga, Raúl Asencio, Gonzalo García, and Fran García: Real Madrid aim to cash in on all four.
– Backup goalkeeper Andriy Lunin: Will be allowed to leave if a suitable offer arrives.
Additionally, Mourinho plans to bring his own coaching staff to Madrid. However, the club will retain several trusted members of the current setup: goalkeeper coach Llopis, medical director Míchel, and fitness trainer Pintus—all highly valued by president Florentino Pérez—will remain part of the new coaching team.