Jose Mourinho has officially returned to coach Real Madrid after 13 years.

The Spanish club has formally announced that Jose Mourinho will take over as first-team head coach, a stunning return for the Portuguese strategist 13 years after he left the Santiago Bernabeu.

According to an announcement from the Spanish royal club, Mourinho signed a three-year contract running until June 2029 and will begin his duties on July 13 when the team assembles to prepare for the new season.

Mourinho’s return comes in the wake of a disappointing season for Real Madrid. The capital club faced persistent difficulties both on the pitch and within the squad. Head coach Xabi Alonso was dismissed in January following disagreements with players. Interim manager Alvaro Arbeloa was unable to turn things around, as Real Madrid were eliminated by Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter‑finals, while Barcelona marched to the La Liga title.

Beyond the on‑field failures, Real Madrid’s dressing room also experienced turmoil. Spanish media reported that midfielder Federico Valverde had to be hospitalized for stitches after a physical altercation with teammate Aurelien Tchouameni. These internal upheavals prompted President Florentino Perez to bring Mourinho back, hoping to restore discipline and the club’s stature.

Mourinho is no stranger to Real Madrid fans. During his tenure from 2010 to 2013, he led Los Blancos to the La Liga title in the 2011/12 season with a record points tally at the time. The 63‑year‑old manager also added a Copa del Rey and a Spanish Super Cup to the Bernabeu trophy room.

Before returning to Madrid, Mourinho enjoyed a successful stint with Benfica. Last season, he guided the Portuguese club to an unbeaten domestic campaign, proving his capabilities even at the age of 63. To bring Mourinho back to the Bernabeu, Real Madrid reportedly had to pay Benfica a €15 million compensation fee for the remainder of his contract.

Immediately after being re‑elected as Real Madrid president, Florentino Perez did not hide his excitement in announcing Mourinho’s return. He described the Portuguese manager as a “true Madridista” and expressed confidence that he would help the club pursue major titles, especially the goal of winning a 16th Champions League crown in its history.

Alongside Mourinho, Real Madrid’s new coaching staff will include five close associates who have worked with him in recent years. With vast experience and a strong personality, “The Special One” is expected to usher in a new era for the royal club and restore Real Madrid to the peak of European football after a turbulent season.