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Jose Mourinho news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Jose Mourinho returned as Real Madrid manager and faces Espanyol on Saturday. His second stint aims to end a two-year trophy drought and topple Barcelona.
Background
Real Madrid hired Jose Mourinho for a second spell, announced on June 11, after two seasons without a major trophy. The club backed him with significant signings, including Yan Diomande and Bernardo Silva, and secured Vinicius Jr. on a new deal through 2032. Mourinho's return is seen as a move to restore stability and challenge Barcelona, who have won back-to-back La Liga titles.
How it unfolded
- May 2026The Athletic reported that Mourinho was Perez's choice to replace Alvaro Arbeloa as manager.
- Jun 11, 2026Mourinho was officially announced as Real Madrid manager after Perez was re-elected with 65% of the vote.
- Aug 19, 2026Mourinho commented on Rodri's move to Barcelona, saying Madrid didn't need him despite making a 'very good offer'.
- Aug 21, 2026In his first pre-match news conference, Mourinho said Mbappe, Vinicius Jr., and Bellingham are not incompatible and expressed confidence in the players' ambition.
- Aug 22, 2026Real Madrid travel to Espanyol for Mourinho's first competitive game since returning, aiming to end Barcelona's run of back-to-back titles.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Mourinho said he has 'great confidence in the ambition of the players' and that they are prepared for the season opener.
- Analysts
- CBS Sports notes the return is a surprising move that 'creates doubts' despite the potential payoff.
- Caution
- The Athletic highlights the turbulent history of Mourinho's first spell, including the eye gouge incident, and notes he has been low-key so far.