Real Madrid pay €15m to rehire José Mourinho

Real Madrid CF have paid €15 million to trigger José Mourinho’s release clause and appoint him as head coach. Benfica SAD confirmed the transaction and announced Mourinho’s consent to the move. Benfica SAD informed the CMVM that the coach’s contract runs until 2027, making the €15 million payment necessary for his departure. The club’s statement thanked Mourinho for his service. José Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid CF from 2010 to 2013, building a competitive side that challenged Barcelona’s dominance. His first spell is credited with strengthening the club’s European standing. Florentino Perez’s election promise was fulfilled as Real Madrid CF also secured Ibrahima Konaté on a free transfer from Liverpool and activated Denzel Dumfries’ €20 million release clause. Additional signings are expected this summer. The accompanying image was captured by Carl Recine.