By Lilian Mutua
Jose Mourinho’s name stands out on the list of managers tipped to take over the Real Madrid project this summer
Jose Mourinho is one of the top candidates being considered to lead the Real Madrid project this summer.
Real Madrid exited the Champions League on Wednesday evening in a 6-4 loss on aggregate to Bayern Munich, securing a second successive trophyless season.
The quarter-final match at the Allianz Arena ended 4-3 to Bayern Munich, with goals coming from Luis Diaz and Michael Olise in the 89th and 94th minutes.
The Spanish giants moved on from manager Xabi Alonso, who has recently been tipped as the likely candidate to replace Arne Slot next season at Liverpool, in January, with the Spaniard’s post being taken over by fellow countryman Alvaro Arbeloa.
Both head coaches managed Real Madrid to second-placed La Liga table positions, with Arbeloa’s job now in serious danger after a disappointing Champions League exit.
Much has been made of Real Madrid managers throughout history requiring extraordinary patience and strength to deal with the many clashing egos that the club has seen across the years.
According to a report from Fichajes, Jose Mourinho’s name stands out amongst those tipped to take over at Real Madrid in the summer, with Arbeloa’s departure considered to be a foregone conclusion.
Alluring factors include Mourinho’s tactical discipline, the presence of nostalgia and his ability to shield the Real Madrid players from external criticism.
After conceding six goals to reigning Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, it is believed that Mourinho would restore defensive order at the club and regain the infamous edge that has seen them prevail on the biggest Champions League nights.
The 63-year-old is currently the head coach of Benfica, meaning formal negotiations would have to take place between both clubs if Mourinho is to join the Spanish giants.
According to Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Mourinho would be extremely open to a Real Madrid return if the opportunity were to present itself.
The Portuguese coach knows well what is required of him if a shock comeback to the Santiago Bernabeu materialises, having managed the club between the years of 2010 and 2013.
Notably, Mourinho led Real Madrid to a record-breaking La Liga title win in the 2011-12 season, including the most games won in a season with 32, and the most away wins in a season with 16.
