All articles tagged with #mourinho
Mourinho revealed Real Madrid made a very good offer to Rodri, but the Spain midfielder hesitated and ultimately signed for Barcelona in a €75m move, with Rodri later saying Barca was his first choice, drawn to Hansi Flick’s style.
Jose Mourinho confirmed contact with Real Madrid but said he will only return if the club’s expectations align with what he can deliver. He noted talks with Florentino Pérez haven’t begun yet, though there are ongoing contacts between Real and his agent Jorge Mendes, with discussions expected to continue next week. Benfica’s buyout clause of about $3.5 million expires on May 26, after which he would be free to move if terms are right. Álvaro Arbeloa issued public support, saying he’d be happy to see Mourinho back if he’s the manager next season.
Real Madrid were drawn to face Benfica in the Champions League Round of 32, with the first leg at Estádio da Luz on Feb 17/18 and the return at the Bernabéu on Feb 24/25; the tie follows Benfica’s dominant midweek win over Madrid and marks Mourinho’s return to the Bernabéu, with Madrid favorites to advance but needing to improve after a rough showing.
Alvaro Arbeloa, nicknamed 'El Espartano', is appointed Real Madrid head coach after Xabi Alonso's sacking, promising the 'No retreat, no surrender' ethos; after seven months with Castilla, he must unite a star-studded dressing room and deliver trophies, with veteran Pintus back in the fold to aid the challenge.