Real Madrid have announced the appointment of Portuguese manager José Mourinho as the head coach of their first football team. The contract spans three seasons, extending until the summer of 2029, marking a return of one of the club's most notable managers to the Santiago Bernabéu after a 13-year absence.
In an official statement, Real Madrid confirmed that during a board meeting chaired by Florentino Pérez, Mourinho was appointed to lead the first team. He is set to officially take charge on July 13, coinciding with the start of preparations for the upcoming season.
This comeback is one of the standout events in the coaching market, given Mourinho's esteemed position within the club. He previously managed the team from 2010 to 2013, a period marked by intense competition both domestically and in Europe.
Mourinho initially arrived in Madrid after leading Italy's Inter Milan to the UEFA Champions League title in 2010. He was tasked with returning Real Madrid to glory and challenging Barcelona's dominance in Spanish football at the time.
During his first tenure, the Portuguese manager led the team to the La Liga title in the 2011-2012 season with a record 100 points, as well as winning the Copa del Rey in 2011 and the Spanish Super Cup in 2012.
On the European stage, Real Madrid reached the Champions League semi-finals in three consecutive seasons under Mourinho but could not clinch the coveted European title despite strong performances.
Mourinho's initial era was also defined by historic and thrilling clashes against Barcelona under Spanish coach Pep Guardiola, resulting in unprecedented levels of rivalry and competition in the 'El Clásico' matches, leaving a significant mark on modern Spanish football history.
All eyes are now on Mourinho's second term, with Real Madrid fans hopeful for a resurgence in both domestic and European glory, leveraging the manager's extensive experience in leading major teams and competing at the highest levels.