Why Mourinho could be Real's 'ultimate wildcard'
Real Madrid is considering potential replacements for manager Alvaro Arbeloa, who has struggled since taking over. Jose Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, is among the names being discussed, although his return is seen as unlikely at this time. The club's president, Florentino Perez, prefers managers who can command respect and manage egos within the team.
- ▪Alvaro Arbeloa has a win percentage of 64%, lower than his predecessor Xabi Alonso's 74%.
- ▪Jose Mourinho, who previously managed Real Madrid, is under contract with Benfica until 2027 but is reportedly eager to return to the Bernabeu.
- ▪Mauricio Pochettino is also being considered for the Real Madrid managerial position, but his commitment to the United States national team complicates matters.
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Why Mourinho could be Real's 'ultimate wildcard'Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Jose Mourinho's Benfica sit second in Liga PortugalByGuillem BalagueBBC Sport ColumnistPublished28 April 2026With Real Madrid out of the Champions League, and now sat closer to third place Villarreal than La Liga leaders Barcelona, noise around manager Alvaro Arbeloa's future is unsurprisingly increasing.Arbeloa took over after Xabi Alonso departed in January, but has performed worse than his predecessor, particularly in La Liga.Alonso left the Bernabeu with an impressive win ratio of 74%. Arbeloa has managed five games fewer than Alonso did in the league but has already lost more with his win percentage down at 64%.
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