Mourinho: Jorge Mendes' Pocket May Hold Key to Benfica Exit

José Mourinho, despite having another year on his contract with Benfica, has reportedly finalized an agreement to take over as head coach of Real Madrid. The Portuguese manager is the preferred choice of Florentino Pérez, president of the Spanish club, but the ongoing electoral process — with elections scheduled in two weeks — is delaying the official announcement of the deal.

According to Spanish newspaper As this Sunday, the uncertainty at Real Madrid could complicate, or at least significantly delay, the operation. This is due to a relatively accessible release clause that allows José Mourinho to leave Benfica by the start of next week.

The same publication suggests that Jorge Mendes, José Mourinho's agent, could play a crucial role in resolving the situation. Mendes is reportedly prepared to cover the €7 million gross release clause, thereby preventing the deadline from expiring and forcing the Spanish club to pay a higher fee for the coach.

José Mourinho returned to Lisbon this Sunday after attending the German Cup final in Berlin on Saturday. The Portuguese coach arrived alone and left the airport without making any statements to journalists.