A Grand Return to the Real Bench? 'The Special One' Reportedly Signs Three-Year Deal

Mourinho, who managed Benfica Lisbon this season, previously coached the 'White Ballet' from 2010-2013. During that tenure, he secured the Spanish Cup in 2011 and the domestic league title in 2012. Real President Florentino Perez is a staunch admirer of Mourinho, whose contract with Benfica still had a year remaining. However, the experienced coach had a release clause. Under 'The Special One,' the Lisbon club finished third in the Portuguese league standings.

The Portuguese tactician will replace Alvaro Arbeloa, who failed to guide 'Los Blancos' to success, with Real finishing the past season trophyless under his leadership. They ended up second in La Liga, trailing rivals FC Barcelona, and were eliminated in the Champions League quarter-finals after falling to Bayern Munich over two legs.