Real Madrid Face €15 Million Mourinho Bill After Missing Benfica Release Clause Deadline

José Mourinho could be heading back to Real Madrid C.F., but the Spanish giants may now have to pay a much higher price to make the reunion happen.

According to reports, Real Madrid missed a crucial deadline that would have allowed them to sign Mourinho from S.L. Benfica for approximately €6 million.

With that clause now expired, the total compensation package could rise to as much as €15 million.

Real Madrid’s Delay Proves Costly

Mourinho has emerged as Real Madrid’s preferred choice to replace Álvaro Arbeloa, with reports suggesting both parties have already agreed to a three-year contract.

However, a special clause in Mourinho’s Benfica contract reportedly allowed clubs to trigger his release for a reduced fee during a limited 10-working-day period following the end of the Portuguese season.

That window closed on May 29.

As a result, any move for the experienced Portuguese manager is now expected to cost considerably more.

Presidential Election Creates Complications

The delay was reportedly linked to developments surrounding Real Madrid’s presidential election process.

Although club president Florentino Pérez remains firmly in charge, recent political developments within the club slowed down several key administrative decisions.

Perez had called a presidential election despite holding a mandate until 2029.

What was expected to be a routine process became more complicated when entrepreneur Enrique Riquelme emerged as a challenger.

The unexpected challenge prevented Perez from receiving automatic confirmation and reportedly delayed the final paperwork required to complete Mourinho’s appointment before the lower release clause expired.

Mourinho Return Edges Closer

Despite the financial setback, reports indicate that a full agreement has already been reached between Mourinho and Real Madrid.

The former Real Madrid manager is believed to have agreed to a three-year deal and is expected to lead the club into a new era following two trophyless seasons.

Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning:

• La Liga
• Copa del Rey
• Spanish Super Cup

His first spell also helped lay the foundation for one of the most successful periods in the club’s modern history.

Madrid Continue Planning For New Season

Although the official announcement has been delayed, Real Madrid are reportedly continuing preparations behind the scenes.

The club remains active in several areas, including:

• Finalising Mourinho’s coaching staff
• Identifying transfer targets
• Planning squad improvements
• Securing key player contracts

Recent reports also indicate that Antonio Rüdiger has already signed a contract extension as part of the club’s long-term planning.

Mourinho’s Biggest Challenge Yet?

Should the deal be completed, Mourinho would return to a Real Madrid side under pressure to reclaim domestic and European dominance.

After back-to-back seasons without a major trophy, expectations at the Santiago Bernabéu will be enormous.

The only question now is whether Real Madrid’s delayed decision-making will cost them an extra €9 million to bring “The Special One” back to Spain.

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