Although the discovery cannot be formally made until next week, after Real Madrid’s presidential election this weekend, Jose Mourinho will be their next manager and the work has effectively already started.
José Mourinho is already working behind the scenes to define the new Real Madrid project – always dependent on the outcome of Florentino Pérez’s election victory. The Portuguese coach wants a smaller, more competitive and obedient squad. His first decision will be to initiate a significant clean-up.
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Mourinho has no plans to come to Valdebebas to lead an oversized squad. His idea is to reduce the number of players and achieve internal control. The coach is deeply involved in Real Madrid’s transfer market and is aware that he needs more specific profiles – with clear roles and fewer players between the starting eleven and the bench.
More names already marked in red – And there will be more
Thus, several names are already marked in red. Dani Ceballos, Fran García, Eduardo Camavinga and Franco Mastantuono are on that list. Not everyone will leave in the same way. Some may be transferred permanently, while others may be eligible for lending to preserve their market value.
Mourinho wants to make quick decisions. He understands that La Liga requires a balanced squad from August – not a team waiting for the market. The Portuguese’s return, if confirmed, will not be a sentimental operation. He comes with authority, demands and changes from day one.
Florentino Pérez shapes his future on the bench
Mourinho’s arrival depends directly on Florentino Pérez. If the incumbent president wins the election, the transition will practically be in place. Benfica has already set the amount needed to release the coach from his contract at 15 million euros.
That amount does not scare Real Madrid, who interpret Mourinho’s return as a strong bet to regain the competitive intensity. Florentino Pérez knows that the Portuguese divides opinions, but also that he is sending a powerful message in the election campaign.
A return for Mourinho would mean a change in tone: less patience with certain profiles and more emphasis on players who can withstand extreme daily demands. In this context, Camavinga’s situation is particularly surprising. The Frenchman has talent, but Mourinho may not see him as an essential piece.
Ceballos, Fran García and Mastantuono on the list
Dani Ceballos finds himself in a sensitive situation again. His quality is never in doubt, but his continuity always arouses suspicion. Fran García can also consider offers. The full-back has not established himself as an undisputed starter, and the club is considering alternatives.
The case of Mastantuono is different. The Argentine represents the future, but Mourinho may prefer him to get playing time away from the Bernabéu. Real Madrid does not want to underpriced assets. The idea is to organize each individual case and decide between sale, loan or conditional stay.
La Liga expects to see a tougher and more selective Real Madrid
Mourinho wants a recognizable team that can compete in La Liga from the first matchday. His recipe involves pressure, character, and tactical discipline. The Portuguese coach has always been in favour of hungry troops. Talent alone is not enough for him without collective commitment and defensive response.
For Florentino Pérez, the investment will also have political implications. Presenting Mourinho with a clear list of decisions will reinforce his message of authority. Therefore, the white market will not only focus on signings – but also be characterized by sensitive departures and decisions with significant media influence.
La Liga could face a more robust, pragmatic and competitive Real Madrid, built around a very defined idea. José Mourinho wants to start by cleaning up the dressing room, and his potential return to Real Madrid already threatens to change the future of several players.
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