Jose Mourinho has been touted for a possible return to Real Madrid and it has now been revealed that the Spanish giants could turn to their old boss for a second time
The chances of Real Madrid launching a surprise pursuit for their former manager, Jose Mourinho, at the end of the season are said to be growing.
Los Blancos, like many other clubs, are expected to appoint a new head coach in the summer after parting company with Xabi Alonso last month, with the Spaniard's successor, reserve team manager, Alvaro Arbeloa, not expected to remain in the post long-term.
Mourinho is no stranger to Real Madrid after spending three years at the Bernabeu earlier in his career. And with the Portuguese coach enjoying somewhat of a renaissance with Benfica, it seems as though there could yet be another chapter in the tale of Mourinho and one of Europe's most famous footballing institutions.
As The Independent outlines, Mourinho is still looked upon fondly by Real Madrid's president, Florentino Perez, who hired him back in 2010.
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The report adds that there is a 'growing feeling' that Mourinho will be targeted by his former club when they advance in their search for a new head coach at the end of the campaign.
Despite a challenging few years, Mourinho's stock was enhanced by Benfica's stunning 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in the final game of the league phase to keep their Champions League campaign alive.
Their reward as another tie with Madrid, with the first of their two-legged affair taking place on Tuesday night in Portugal.
Mourinho was quizzed about the possibility of another spell in charge of Real Madrid on the eve of the big game. He straight-batted such questions, though, saying he was reluctant to fuel any rumours.
When he was asked if it was possible to say no to Real and Perez, Mourinho replied “yes” before continuing: “I don't want to fuel stories that don't exist.
“I have one more year on my contract with Benfica; it's special because it's an election period and we wanted to protect a new president. It has an easy-to-break clause. I have nothing against Madrid.”
On his relationship with Perez, Mourinho added: “The last time we spoke was when I signed with Benfica.
“He told me he was very happy because I had signed for a great club. He didn't come to the last match; I hope he'll be here tomorrow so I can talk to him. We're great friends.”