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Real Madrid have officially announced the return of Jose Mourinho as head coach on a three-year contract, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the Spanish giants. Following his victory in the recent club presidential elections, Florentino Perez has quickly acted on his key campaign pledge to bring the 63-year-old Portuguese manager back to the Santiago Bernabeu.

The announcement confirms Mourinho’s second spell in charge of Real Madrid after the departure of Alvaro Arbeloa. Thirteen years after his first stint ended, the veteran tactician makes his much-anticipated comeback, signing a deal that will keep him at the club until 2029.

Mourinho returns to Madrid after a season managing Benfica, with Real agreeing to pay €15 million in compensation to secure his release from the Portuguese side. The Lisbon club had confirmed on Wednesday that negotiations were finalised, paving the way for his return to Spain.

In an official statement, Real Madrid detailed Mourinho’s start date: “The Board of Directors of Real Madrid C. F., meeting today, Thursday, June 11 and chaired by Florentino Pérez, has agreed to appoint José Mourinho as head coach of the first team for the next three seasons, until June 30, 2029. José Mourinho will join Real Madrid on July 13, the day that the preseason will begin.”

Florentino Perez had made Mourinho’s return a central part of his campaign promises ahead of last weekend’s successful re-election. The president’s renewed mandate has quickly translated into action, fulfilling a core element of his vision to rejuvenate the team after a disappointing run of seasons.

Alongside Mourinho’s appointment, Perez also vowed to strengthen the squad through major signings, naming Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries as transfer targets and promising a €150 million move for a new ‘Galactico’. True to that commitment, Real Madrid recently tabled a €150 million bid for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez, though the offer was rejected.

Mourinho takes over at a crucial juncture for the club, which has endured two consecutive trophyless campaigns under Carlo Ancelotti, Xabi Alonso, and most recently Arbeloa. The Portuguese coach faces the challenge of restoring Real’s dominance and delivering immediate success in an environment known for its high expectations.

During his previous tenure at the Bernabeu between 2010 and 2013, Mourinho led Real Madrid to a LaLiga title, a Copa del Rey triumph, and a Spanish Supercopa win. He also guided the team to three successive Champions League semi-finals. Since leaving Madrid, he has managed Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma, Fenerbahce, and Benfica.

However, Mourinho’s recent record has come under scrutiny. His last major trophy was the UEFA Conference League with Roma four years ago, and his most recent league title dates back to 2015 with Chelsea in the Premier League. Critics question whether his pragmatic, defensively disciplined style can still thrive in the fast-evolving modern game.

At Benfica, Mourinho’s side went unbeaten in the Portuguese league last season but finished third behind Porto and Sporting. Ironically, his team was also eliminated by Real Madrid in the Champions League knockout phase playoffs, adding an extra twist to his return story.