Real Madrid Resolves Benfica Issue for Mourinho's Return

The final hurdle for José Mourinho's return to Real Madrid has reportedly been cleared. According to "AS," the "Whites" have settled their dispute with Benfica regarding the compensation for "The Special One." Mourinho's contract included a clause allowing him to depart this summer for €7 million. However, this clause expires this week and will not be activated by Real, as Florentino Pérez has called for new presidential elections, scheduled for June 7th. Benfica had stated that once the clause expired, they would demand €15 million in compensation, equivalent to the Portuguese coach's annual salary.

This dispute, however, was resolved through the mediation of Jorge Mendes, who convinced Benfica to drop their higher financial demands. A key leverage point for the agent was the fact that he represents the Fulham manager, who is the Portuguese club's primary target to succeed Mourinho. Mendes committed to negotiating more favorable terms for Benfica and guaranteeing that Marco Silva would not renew his contract with the London club, despite having an offer.

This resolution will save Real time, and Mourinho could be unveiled as the team's coach within three days of the elections, assuming Pérez wins again, which is widely expected.