Mourinho is back
It's done. José Mourinho returns to Real Madrid after the club paid his €15m release clause to Benfica (2) (3) (8) (10). Benfica have already confirmed Marco Silva as his replacement (3) (8). Álvaro Arbeloa's departure earlier today cleared the path, the club statement confirmed both sides reached an agreement to end his time as first team coach: "Real Madrid CF and Álvaro Arbeloa have reached an agreement to end his time as first team coach" (4). Florentino Pérez, who is fighting to keep the presidency, has given Mourinho's first spell "a high mark" for the "qualitative leap" he delivered against Barcelona's superiority (7).
Mourinho's first moves taking shape
The new manager isn't wasting time. Reports from Spain say Mourinho has already requested a €60m signing as part of a squad rebuild (9). Bernardo Silva is a confirmed target Mourinho wants if appointed. Meanwhile, Real Madrid's mega bid for Julián Álvarez has been rejected (5), and Bayern Munich are reportedly refusing to sell Michael Olise at any price (6). On the outgoing front, Galatasaray have begun official contact with Real Madrid over Eduardo Camavinga (7). Fenerbahçe are also circling one of your stars, with new president Aziz Yıldırım pushing for the move (10).
Fan reactions
The Julián Álvarez news hit a nerve on social media after Atlético Madrid president Enrique Cerezo's blunt dismissal: "Julián is not for sale." Some fans see the rejected bid as a sign of serious ambition under the new regime, while others are already debating alternative midfield targets. One thread asks why the club isn't chasing Elliott Anderson given his age and quality, with both Manchester clubs reportedly keen. Elsewhere, a wave of birthday posts for Carlo Ancelotti, turning 67 today, offered a moment of gratitude amid the chaos, with supporters calling him one of the greatest of all time. Read more
