It could have cost half as much, but for some reason, Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez decided he had to go through with an election. His “candidate” was José Mourinho, who until June 1 was available for a buyout clause of €7 million. Benfica, who “own” the Special One, weren’t about to let that opportunity slip – and of course demanded every penny they could.
Real Madrid buy out José Mourinho for €15 million.
Read: Iraola could bring former Liverpool star back into the squad
Real Madrid have found their successor to Álvaro Arbeloa, and the choice has fallen on José Mourinho. The Portuguese hasn’t been presented by Los Blancos yet, but he is being brought in from Benfica.
The Lisbon club announce that Real Madrid have made good on their interest and are buying out the 63-year-old for €15 million. Mourinho himself has given the green light for a return.
“Thank you, José Mourinho,” Benfica write in their statement.
At the same time, Benfica announce that their new head coach is Marco Silva, most recently of Fulham. The contract runs for two seasons, with an option for an additional year.
The Mourinho transfer doesn’t come as any major surprise. Re-elected Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez had already confirmed a comeback for Mourinho.
Read on TimePeopleWorld: Global Triumph for “Michael” — Biopic Becomes Studio’s Top-Grossing Film
José Mourinho coached Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning one league title, one Copa del Rey trophy and one Spanish Super Cup at the club. The Portuguese is one of the most talked-about managers in world football and has celebrated triumphs with clubs such as Porto, Chelsea, Inter and Manchester United.
