Benfica 'confident' they can keep Jose Mourinho despite Real Madrid interest

Benfica remain confident that Jose Mourinho will remain in charge for the 2026/27 season, despite reported interest from Real Madrid.

It's no secret that Real Madrid are in the market for a new manager, with current boss Alvaro Arbeloa expected to be dismissed in the summer.

The Spaniard replaced fellow ex-Real Madrid player Xabi Alonso in January but has so far failed to impress, with the European giants out of the Champions League and unlikely to surpass Barcelona in La Liga title race.

Several names have been linked with a move to the Bernabeu, including Jurgen Klopp and Didier Deschamps, but former manager Mourinho appears to be the favourite after he received backing from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez.

Currently, the 63-year-old is managing Portuguese side Benfica, having joined in September, signing a contract until June 2027.

Reports of a €3million (£2.6m) release clause could pave a path to a Bernabeu return for Mourinho, but Benfica reportedly remain "confident" that he will remain in charge for next season.

According to Portuguese outlet Record, Benfica aren't intimidated by Real Madrid and the club's structure is already preparing for the 2026/27 season with Mourinho.

That being said, the report adds that in the scenario that Mourinho were to leave Benfica, the club would target Fulham boss Marco Silva as their ideal replacement.

The 48-year-old manager's contract with the London club is set to expire in the summer, meaning he could be the perfect option for the Eagles.

How could Mourinho leave Benfica to join Real Madrid?

Mourinho's reported break clause would allow either him or Benfica to break the deal up to 10 days after the final match of this season.

Benfica play their final match against G.D. Estoril Praia on May 16, meaning Mourinho's departure would have to take place sometime between May 6 and May 26.

Perez is believed to be leading the charge as he hopes to see Mourinho lift a Champions League trophy with Real Madrid, the only major accolade he failed to do in his previous spell.

Mourinho led Real Madrid to three trophies from 2010 and 2013, including the 2011-12 La Liga title, setting a new record points total in the process.