Mourinho Edges Klopp as Real Madrid Push for Quick Manager Appointment

Jose Mourinho favored to return as Real Madrid eye new manager

Madrid want the manager confirmed before season end amid squad decisions. Past tensions with Vinicius Junior are not seen as a major obstacle to Mourinho’s return.

Mourinho holds edge over Klopp in Real Madrid Manager race...

Jose Mourinho appears to have the upper hand over Jurgen Klopp as both are linked to the Real Madrid job, with the club looking to appoint a manager quickly.

Mourinho has become a top contender at Madrid, and sources say president Florentino Perez knows he wants to return to the Bernabeu.

The Portuguese, who managed Madrid from 2010 to 2013, is reportedly open to coming back this summer. Perez already favored him before, and Mourinho’s willingness now puts him ahead as Madrid push to move fast on plans for next season.

The club wants to avoid delays with major squad decisions on the horizon. Midfield and center-back reinforcements are planned, and there are also internal issues to sort out around returning players and squad balance.

Klopp is seen as a high-profile backup option, though there’s uncertainty since Madrid don’t know if he’d leave his Red Bull role to return to managing day-to-day.

🚨 Jose Mourinho preferred candidate of Florentino Perez to become next Real Madrid head coach. Support not universal inside #RMFC but president driving process so 63yo strong contender. ~€3m break clause in Benfica deal. W/ @MarioCortegana @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/7FqeSOBh68

— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) April 28, 2026

If Klopp shows interest, he’d become a serious contender and turn the race into a direct contest with Mourinho.

A Mourinho return isn’t without friction, especially after recent tensions with Vinicius Junior. Sources say the club doesn’t see those issues as a major barrier right now.

Madrid want the managerial situation resolved before the season ends, highlighting how quickly they want to move.

For now, Madrid have two elite options on the table, with Mourinho holding a slight edge.