José Mourinho Dismisses Rumors of Real Madrid Return
On January 19, 2026, at 05:44 AM ET, Benfica coach José Mourinho addressed speculation about his potential return to Real Madrid, labeling the rumors as a “soap opera.” This comes after Real Madrid parted ways with Xabi Alonso, who had been in charge for less than eight months, and appointed Álvaro Arbeloa, the coach of Madrid’s reserves, as his replacement.
Mourinho, who guided Madrid to a LaLiga title, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Supercup during his three-year tenure from 2010 to 2013, was asked about the speculation following Benfica’s 2-0 win at Rio Ave on Saturday. He responded, “Don’t count on me for soap operas. There are many good soap operas, but they take too long. Then you miss an episode or two and you lose track. Don’t count on me, I don’t watch soap operas.”
Mourinho’s Current Role and Future Plans
Mourinho, 62, took the reins at Benfica in September and has a contract until June 2027. Despite the rumors, he seems committed to his current role. Benfica, currently third in the Primeira Liga, 10 points behind leaders FC Porto, have a crucial Champions League match against Juventus on Wednesday, followed by a home game against Mourinho’s former club Real Madrid on January 28.
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As the football season progresses, rumors and speculation about coaching positions and player transfers will continue to circulate. However, for now, José Mourinho has made it clear that he is focused on his role at Benfica and not considering a return to Real Madrid. Fans will have to wait and see how the rest of the season unfolds for both Benfica and Real Madrid, and whether Mourinho will remain at the helm of the Portuguese club.
