Real Madrid assistant coach Álvaro Arbeloa has publicly backed José Mourinho to replace him as the club’s next head coach. Arbeloa, a former Real Madrid player, spoke amid growing speculation that Mourinho could be appointed to manage the Spanish giants next season. His comments signal a rare moment of unity in an otherwise tense period for the club.

Arbeloa, who has worked under Mourinho since 2013, stated that he would be “happy” if the Portuguese manager took over the top job. “If José Mourinho becomes the coach, I would be delighted,” Arbeloa told Marca. His remarks follow reports that Mourinho is a leading candidate to replace Carlo Ancelotti, whose future at the club remains uncertain after a disappointing season.

Mourinho, known for his strong personality and tactical acumen, has a mixed legacy at Real Madrid. He won the La Liga title in 2011–12 but left the club in 2013 after a strained relationship with club president Florentino Pérez. Since then, he has managed Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, though his time in England was controversial.

Arbeloa’s endorsement highlights the respect he holds for Mourinho’s managerial style. “He is a winner, a leader who demands everything from his players,” Arbeloa said. “He knows how to get the best out of a squad and has the experience to succeed at the highest level.” The praise comes despite reports of tension between the two during their time together at Real Madrid.

Mourinho’s Real Madrid history and future prospects

Mourinho’s potential return to Real Madrid has been a recurring topic in Spanish media. After leaving in 2013, he has frequently been mentioned in connection with the club, especially during periods of managerial uncertainty. His reputation as a big-game manager and his history with Pérez could make him an attractive option if the club decides to make a bold appointment.

Arbeloa’s comments may also reflect the club’s need for stability. Real Madrid finished sixth in La Liga this season, their worst league finish in over a decade, and were knocked out of the Champions League in the round of 16. With Pérez facing pressure to deliver results, Mourinho’s appointment would send a strong message of intent to restore competitiveness.

What happens next?

The next few weeks will be critical for Real Madrid. Ancelotti’s contract expires at the end of June, and the club is expected to make a decision soon. If Mourinho is appointed, it would mark a surprising but high-profile return to management for the 61-year-old coach. Arbeloa’s support could ease any concerns about internal dynamics and signal a smooth transition within the coaching staff. For now, Real Madrid’s future remains uncertain, but the possibility of Mourinho’s return is dominating discussions among fans and pundits alike.

What You Need to Know

  • Source: BBC Sport
  • Published: May 16, 2026 at 11:42 UTC
  • Category: Sports
  • Topics: #bbc · #sports · #football · #arbeloa · #mourinho · #real-real-madrid

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Curated by GlobalBR News · May 16, 2026

🇧🇷 Resumo em Português

O Real Madrid pode viver uma reviravolta histórica na temporada, com a possibilidade de José Mourinho retornar ao comando técnico do time merengue. A declaração de Álvaro Arbeloa, ex-lateral do clube e atual diretor de futebol, foi a faísca que acendeu a discussão: segundo ele, abraçaria com entusiasmo a ideia de ver o português assumindo o posto, elogiando o estilo de liderança e a capacidade tática do treinador.

A fala de Arbeloa não é mera especulação, mas reflete um momento delicado para o Real Madrid, que busca resgatar sua identidade após temporadas de altos e baixos. Mourinho, ídolo pela conquista da Champions League em 2014, tem legado inegável no clube, mas sua volta dividiria opiniões entre torcedores e dirigentes. Para o torcedor brasileiro, especialmente, a notícia soa como nostalgia, já que o treinador teve passagens marcantes no futebol nacional, tanto no Internacional quanto no Palmeiras, onde deixou marcas profundas.

Se a diretoria do Real Madrid decidir apostar novamente em Mourinho, a decisão poderá redefinir os rumos do time na temporada, com impacto imediato nas discussões esportivas em todo o mundo.