At a glance
- Jose Mourinho is once again being linked to the Real Madrid manager’s job.
- Asked about the rumours at a press conference on Friday, the Benfica boss said nobody from Los Blancos has contacted him.
- The Portuguese giants will reportedly meet with Mourinho on Monday and offer him a renewal.
Jose Mourinho claimed that nobody from Real Madrid has contacted him as per possibly returning to the Bernabeu for a second spell as head coach.
With Alvaro Arbeloa replaced, Mourinho is reportedly President Florentino Perez‘s preferred choice to restore law and order among an underperforming Madrid squad set to finish a second consecutive season trophyless.
Therefore asked on Friday whether there had been contact from Perez while previewing a weekend Portuguese Liga tie against Famalicao, Mourinho responded negatively.
“No, no one from Real Madrid has spoken to me. I can guarantee that,” he said. “I’ve been in football for too many years, just like you’ve been in journalism. We’re used to these things, but nothing from Real Madrid.”
Real Madrid target Mourinho gave nothing away on Benfica renewal
Mourinho also refused to confirm previous reports of him being called to a meeting by Benfica president Rui Costa. However on Monday, the pair are expected to discuss a potential contract renewal.
“I can’t say anything. I have already told your colleague that. As far as Real Madrid is concerned, nothing. As far as Benfica is concerned, they already know the situation. I have one more year left on my contract with Benfica and that’s it,” he said.
According to transfer market expert Matteo Moretto, however, direct talks are talking place between Mourinho and Perez.
The legendary tactician wants a return to the Spanish capital. Then as we already reported, Perez is expected to take an active role in the appointment of a new manager with Mourinho his preferred candidate.
Meanwhile, Benfica know about Madrid’s interest and have to act swiftly. A €3 million release clause can be triggered 10 days after the last day of their season on May 16, which is pocket change to Madrid if they want their man.
