Can Mourinho restore Real Madrid to former glory?

Jose Mourinho returned to Real Madrid in 2023, aiming to revive the club's fortunes after two trophy-less seasons. The 63-year-old Portuguese manager has won titles at various other clubs, including the Premier League with Chelsea in 2015. However, his subsequent stints at Manchester United, Tottenham, Roma, Fenerbahce, and Benfica have been marked by varying degrees of success and turbulence.

Spanish football expert Eduardo Alvarez believes Mourinho's appointment is inspired by Carlo Ancelotti's successful second spell at the club. Mourinho's approach is more player-focused rather than tactically intense, which may align with what Real Madrid president Florentino Perez seeks in a manager. However, former Real Madrid president Ramon Calderon warns Mourinho must change his behavior and attitude to succeed.

Calderon believes Mourinho's protagonism and blame-shifting tactics from his first tenure at the club could create problems. Portuguese journalist Duarte Monteiro adds that Mourinho's character and personality have not changed, and the young players at Benfica last season reported a volatile relationship with him. Former Chelsea defender Robert Huth, who played under Mourinho in 2005-06, acknowledges his harsh but fair approach, which may be effective for young players but could be intimidating.

Ultimately, Mourinho's ability to unite and motivate a talented squad like Real Madrid's current lineup of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Jr, and Jude Bellingham will be crucial to his success.