Benfica head coach José Mourinho has confirmed that his future will be decided during a 10-day post-season window, effectively inviting approaches from Chelsea and Real Madrid as both clubs consider managerial changes. The 63-year-old, currently under contract in Lisbon until June 2027, is understood to have a release clause allowing for an immediate departure this May according to reports in the Mirror. However, former Real Madrid midfielder Guti has publicly questioned the move, telling DAZN that the Portuguese manager is "past his best" and that more modern candidates should be prioritised over a third stint at Stamford Bridge or a second term at the Bernabéu.
The coaching vacuum at Chelsea and Real Madrid
The sudden availability of Mourinho coincides with significant instability at two of his former employers. Chelsea are currently searching for their third permanent manager of the 2025/26 campaign after sacking Liam Rosenior in April, having already dismissed Enzo Maresca earlier in the season. While Calum McFarlane holds interim control, the London club remains 11th in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Real Madrid manager Alvaro Arbeloa faces likely dismissal following a Champions League exit to Bayern Munich and a disappointing La Liga trail that leaves them nine points behind leaders Barcelona. With elite alternatives like Carlo Ancelotti and Thomas Tuchel committed to international roles through the 2026 World Cup, Mourinho’s availability through his specific contract break at Benfica has seen him linked to both vacancies by sources in Spain and the UK.
Mourinho's declining tactical returns
Despite the high-profile interest, Mourinho’s recent record suggests his stock is trading on reputation rather than current performance. Speaking on DAZN, Guti noted that Mourinho "took over Benfica at a very bad time" but argued he is no longer in his prime following a trophyless spell in Lisbon and a divisive tenure at Fenerbahçe. Tactically, Mourinho’s Benfica have struggled for consistency, a stark contrast to Cesc Fàbregas, who has emerged as a rival candidate for the Chelsea job after impressive results with Como in Serie A. Como president Mirwan Suwarso recently told reporters that Fàbregas is "free to go" if the Chelsea role is offered. For Real Madrid, the decision rests on whether to prioritise Mourinho's proven knockout pedigree or wait for a long-term structural appointment such as Mauricio Pochettino once the seasonal market settles.
Final league positions and the outcome of internal board meetings in London and Madrid will determine if the 10-day clause in Mourinho's contract is triggered by the end of May.