And while Bellingham settled in perfectly at the Bernabeu, the same cannot be said about Trent Alexander-Arnold yet. That’s why Bolavip asked McManaman not only about Jose Mourinho‘s return to Madrid, but also about his expectations for the former Liverpool star this year.

“I think Trent Alexander-Arnold will be fine, he had a couple of injury problems last year,” McManaman responded to Bolavip during a press conference with international media outlets organized by LALIGA and ESPN.

“He never went to the World Cup and was unhappy about that, but he’s had a really good summer off, working very hard. And I think the structure with Jose Mourinho will really help. I think it will help the fact that he’ll have a right midfielder, who we think will be Yan Diomande, in front of him. I think that structure will help.”

McManaman also optimistic about Anthony Gordon’s potential at Barcelona

McManaman can relate to Alexander-Arnold, even if the former found success with Madrid earlier than the latter. Both share a strong Liverpool connection, having made it all the way to the Reds’ first team from the academy before taking their talents to La Casa Blanca.

Another fellow countryman McManaman can identify with is Anthony Gordon, even if the winger is playing for Real Madrid’s lifelong rivals Barcelona. McManaman also had encouraging words for Gordon as he enters his first season in LALIGA.

“As for Anthony Gordon, I wish him all the best, he’s from the same area where I grew up in Liverpool, he’s from an area called Kirkdale,” McManaman said. “So I wish him all the best, I know he played a couple of preseason games and he’s impressed. He’s quick, he’s strong, and the longer he stays at Barcelona, I think he’ll excell. So I wish him all the best, I hope he has a fantastic season.“

McManaman, the first English player to win the Champions League with a non-English club, has been a source of inspiration for new players moving to Spain. His comments should only give Alexander-Arnold and Gordon all the confidence they need to have a strong season in Spain.

Puyol, who captained Barcelona from 2004 to 2014, knows perfectly well what is like to face a Madrid side led by Mourinho. In his response to Bolavip, the legendary defender made it crystal clear how highly he thinks of the Portuguese manager.

“Well, we’re talking about a great manager,” Puyol said when asked by Bolavip about his memories facing Mourinho and how dangerous his return to Madrid can be for Barcelona. “I met him at Barcelona when I was young and coming through the academy, and when I made it to the first team, we could already see that he knew a lot about football.

“Then he went to other clubs, built a good résumé, and eventually arrived at Real Madrid, where Real Madrid had a very good team. We were going through a very strong period, and I remember a great rivalry and many individual battles. The Barça-Madrid rivalry is huge, but in those years, on top of that, it was Guardiola against Mourinho, Messi against Cristiano, and two great, great teams.

“So we’ll see how he does now. I still think Barcelona have a very good team and will be able to have a good season, but it’s clear that one of their biggest rivals is Real Madrid, and with Mourinho they could be stronger.”

McManaman believes that Mourinho ‘needs to finish above Barcelona’

McManaman, who made 158 appearances for Real Madrid from 1999 to 2003, has a deep understanding of the expectations surrounding Mourinho in his second stint at the club.

“He needs to win,” McManaman responded to Bolavip. “It’s simple as that. He needs to beat Barcelona, he needs to win the league. I don’t necessarily think he needs to win the Champions League, but he needs to finish above Barcelona.

“He’s been brought in because the last two years have been disappointing. So he needs just to get the best out of the players, but more importantly, it’s to finish above Barcelona. He has to do it instantly. Real Madrid can’t go three years without winning anything. So Jose has to hit the ground running and he has to be successful straight away. That’s what he’s been brought in for.”

McManaman is being realistic. Those are the standards at Real Madrid. If not, just ask Carlo Ancelotti. Carletto may have led the club to its 15th UEFA Champions League/European Cup title in 2024, yet one bad season the next year sealed his fate. Well, it was a bad season for Real Madrid’s standards. Finishing second in LALIGA and failing to win either the UCL or Copa del Rey led to Ancelotti’s departure and Xabi Alonso’s hiring in 2025.

Alonso didn’t last long though, and his replacement, Alvaro Arbeloa, couldn’t deliver major silverware either. Mourinho, who won three titles (LALIGA, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup) in his first stint in Madrid, now has to bring back glory days immediately.

Puyol, who also talked about Spain’s future, knows Mourinho’s return poses a threat to Barcelona and McManaman understands that winning the Champions League might be a tall ask, but anything less than a league title could be all she wrote for the Special One. Needless to say, this LALIGA season will be must-watch for world soccer.

According to transfer market expert Fabrizio Romano, the Portuguese midfielder is nearing a move to Real Madrid, where he could become one of the first major additions of the new Jose Mourinho era after the tournament concludes.

Real Madrid has already confirmed Mourinho’s return as head coach through June 2029, with the Portuguese manager set to begin his second spell at the club on July 13. If Bernardo Silva arrives as expected, Mourinho would inherit one of the deepest and most talented squads in world soccer as he looks to restore Madrid to the top of European stage.

The potential addition of Silva would provide another elite creative option alongside stars such as Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and Federico Valverde. Known for his versatility, work rate, and technical quality, the Portugal international could quickly become a key piece in Mourinho’s plans for the 2026-27 season.

How could Bernardo Silva fit into Jose Mourinho’s system?

One of Silva’s greatest strengths is his ability to operate in multiple positions. Throughout his career, he has played as an attacking midfielder, central midfielder, winger, and even in deeper playmaking roles when required.

That versatility could make him an ideal fit for Mourinho, who has traditionally valued intelligent players capable of adapting to different tactical situations. Silva’s experience in high-pressure matches for both club and country would also bring additional leadership to a squad already filled with world-class talent.

Real Madrid’s projected lineup with Bernardo Silva

If the reported move is completed following the World Cup, Real Madrid could line up as follows: Thibaut Courtois; Trent Alexander-Arnold, Eder Militao, Antonio Rudiger, Alphonso Davies; Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Bernardo Silva; Rodrygo, Vinicius Junior, Kylian Mbappe.

The depth behind that lineup would remain equally impressive, with Jude Bellingham, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, Endrick, and Brahim Diaz providing Mourinho with multiple alternatives throughout the season.

As Portugal continue their World Cup journey with Cristiano Ronaldo leading the way, Real Madrid supporters will be closely monitoring Bernardo Silva’s future. If the deal is finalized, Mourinho could begin his second chapter at the Santiago Bernabeu with one of the strongest squads in Europe.

On X, Casillas wrote: “I have no problem with Mourinho. I think he is a great professional. I don’t want him at Real Madrid. I believe other coaches would be better suited to manage the club of my life. Personal opinion. Nothing more.”

The comments come during a difficult season for Real Madrid, who recently lost 2-0 to lifelong rivals Barcelona, a result that effectively secured the league title for the Catalan side.

Real Madrid’s difficult season and managerial instability

Real Madrid’s campaign has ended without major trophies, marking a disappointing season by the club’s standards. The team experienced managerial changes, including the departure of Xabi Alonso after the Spanish Super Cup loss to Barcelona and the arrival of Alvaro Arbeloa, but the adjustments were not enough to achieve success across domestic and European competitions.

The lack of silverware for Real Madrid has intensified scrutiny over squad planning, tactical stability, and long-term sporting decisions, especially as Barcelona claimed the league title with consistency throughout the season.

Mourinho links and official stance from club leadership

Speculation about a possible Mourinho return has circulated, but Real Madrid leadership has avoided confirming any discussions regarding the matter. Perez stated: “I am not here today to comment on this,” via Fabrizio Romano on X.

He also added: “Mourinho? We’re not talking about that right now. We’re talking about keeping control of Real Madrid, us, the socios. Not journalists.” according to Madrid Zone on X. These remarks indicate that no official movement has been confirmed regarding a managerial change involving Mourinho at this stage.

According to reports from David Ornstein and Mario Cortegana of The Athletic, Mourinho is the preferred choice of President Florentino Perez. While the Portuguese tactician is currently under contract with Benfica, a specific release clause—reportedly around €3m—makes him a low-risk economic gamble for Madrid.

While Ornstein and Cortegana noted that Perez’s decision does not have unanimous support within the club—contrasting with the previous pursuit of Xabi Alonso, which was led by General Manager Jose Angel Sanchez— the club president is taking personal charge of this selection process.

Mourinho’s performance since leaving Real Madrid

Since departing Real Madrid in 2013, Mourinho has managed several of Europe’s most prominent clubs:

• 2013–2015: Chelsea
• 2016–2018: Manchester United
• 2019–2021: Tottenham Hotspur
• 2021–2024: Roma
• 2024–2025: Fenerbahce
• 2025–Present: Benfica

In terms of silverware, since his exit from the Spanish giants, he has secured the following trophies:

With Chelsea:

• Premier League: 2014–15
• League Cup: 2014–15

With Manchester United:

• League Cup: 2016–17
• FA Community Shield: 2016
• UEFA Europa League: 2016–17

With Roma

• UEFA Conference League: 2021–22

Other options for Real Madrid

While Mourinho is reportedly Florentino Perez’s top choice, there are other managers on Real Madrid’s radar. One of them is Lionel Scaloni, whose contract expiration with Argentina has opened the door for speculation about a move to the Spanish capital following the 2026 World Cup.

He isn’t the only Argentine on the shortlist, as reports have also linked Mauricio Pochettino as a potential candidate. The current USMNT head coach is under contract through the end of the next World Cup, but he hasn’t ruled out a return to the club level.

Jurgen Klopp’s name has also surfaced, though reports suggest his need for long-term project-building is seen as a potential obstacle. Finally, Didier Deschamps has been mentioned, as he is set to leave the French National Team after the 2026 World Cup; however, L’Équipe reports that his camp denies any rumors linking him to Real Madrid.

The coach made a strong statement about the potential consequences for his player. As journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed on his Instagram account, the coach warned that if Prestianni’s words were true, his career with Mourinho and Benfica would be over.

“I love Arbeloa and I will continue to love him but I think I took the right position about that case. I took position without defending one or attacking another. I clearly said he didn’t want to wear either Real white jersey or Benfica’s red jersey in a situation that could eventually be serious, that I said after the game,” Mourinho said.

“That’s why I tell you to read the Declaration of Human Rights and I repudiate any discrimination or prejudice. I also tell you that if you prove that my player did not respect these principles, this player’s career with coach Mourinho and Benfica comes to an end.”

Anticipation builds over final decision

Jose Mourinho is undoubtedly one of the most experienced coaches in European soccer today, not only because of his achievements but also for how he manages his squads.

For this reason, he still maintains a cloud of uncertainty regarding Prestianni’s situation and a potential sanction after his incident with Vinicius Jr during the latest Champions League playoffs: “I’m not a literate person… but I’m not ignorant either. I put the presumption of innocence and always put a if.

“Unfortunately, UEFA had preferred to keep the player away from game looking at article 416328… and they went in the direction of not getting into ‘IFs.’ If the player is effectively guilty, I won’t look at him the same way again and it’s over with me. But I have to put a lot of ‘IFs’ ahead.”

Mourinho is prohibited from managing the match in person after being sent off by referee Francois Letexier during the first leg at the Estadio da Luz. As a result, he must serve a one-match touchline ban.

“I will not sit on the bench, I will not be able to go to the locker room, nor communicate with the team,” Mourinho stated during a press conference following the 1-0 first-leg defeat. “It will be difficult for me, but my colleagues and assistants will be there doing a great job”.

In addition to the absence of their head coach, Benfica will also be without Gianluca Prestianni. Following the incidents involving Vinicius Jr. in the first leg, UEFA made a final decision to uphold the midfielder’s suspension, rejecting an appeal from the club to have the Argentine available for today’s match.

Mourinho criticizes officiating following suspension

With Real Madrid holding a 1-0 lead and tensions high at the Estadio da Luz following the incident between Vinicius Jr. and Prestianni, the Brazilian forward committed a foul that many believed warranted a second yellow card and a subsequent sending-off.

However, referee Francois Letexier opted not to issue the booking, sparking an angry reaction from Mourinho. The French official cautioned the Portuguese manager for his protests, but as Mourinho continued to voice his frustrations, Letexier issued a second yellow card, resulting in his expulsion from the match.

“I was sent off for saying something very obvious,” a visibly frustrated Mourinho said during the post-match press conference. “The referee has a script that says Tchouameni, Huijsen and Carreras cannot see a yellow. I have 1,400 matches on the bench and I knew who he could card and who he couldn’t. We know how this works”.

In Mourinho’s absence, assistant coach Joao Tralhao will lead Benfica at the Santiago Bernabeu. Tralhão also addressed the situation, describing the dismissal of the two-time Champions League winner as “exaggerated” during his pre-match briefing.

“We feel it was an exaggerated situation,” Tralhao stated. “He is our leader; he is present, and football forces us to adapt. I cannot speak with him during the match, but he will always be with us. His ideas and those of the club will be defended”.

Recently, Benfica president publicly defended Gianluca Prestianni amid racism allegations, which triggered debates across social media and sports outlets, as UEFA dismissed the complaint filed by Benfica after their Champions League loss to Real Madrid.

Courtois made his stance clear: “Mourinho? It’s disappointing to use the Vini celebration as an excuse. You can’t use that to justify a possible racism episode,” he said according to @MadridXtra on X. His remarks underline Real Madrid’s view that celebrations should not be conflated with alleged misconduct, highlighting the solidarity within the squad.

Mourinho’s legal moves stir additional debate

Mourinho reportedly makes legal decision for Benfica’s second leg, a move that continues to divide opinions and intensifies the narrative around the incident. Courtois’ criticism reinforces the perception that the matter should be addressed carefully and fairly.

What’s next for Vinicius Jr. and Real Madrid

As the Champions League progresses, Vinicius Jr.’s focus will be crucial the team’s success. Real Madrid will face Benfica on Wednesday at the Santiago Bernabeu, in the second leg.

According to Sky Sports, Mourinho intends to exercise his right not to speak before and after the match between Benfica and Real Madrid. Instead, his assistant coach, João Tralhão, will take on media duties.

Despite a UEFA directive mandating head coaches to address the media before and after games, Mourinho is leveraging the red card he received in the first game to justify his decision. This appeal allows him to bypass the usual media obligations.

As he is currently suspended, Mourinho will not engage with the media, citing his rights under the established rules. Consequently, his assistant will fulfill all media commitments on Tuesday and after Wednesday’s clash against Los Merengues.

Prestianni receives formal communication from UEFA

Apart from the developments regarding Mourinho, Argentine player Gianluca Prestianni has received formal communication from UEFA related to the incident with Vinicius Jr. in the opening playoff match.

Ultimately, UEFA has sanctioned Benfica’s Prestianni following the controversial incident involving the Brazilian star. Facing this scenario, the Portuguese team is determined to overcome the sanctions and turn the tide in its favor to advance further in the Champions League.

Benfica react to UEFA’s ruling on Prestianni

In light of UEFA’s ruling, Benfica have issued a strong statement in response to the punishment of Prestianni over the allegations from Vinicius Jr. With tensions high, the stage is set for an intense showdown in Spain, as Real Madrid leads by a narrow 1-0 margin.

Without both Mourinho and Prestianni on the bench, Benfica will fight vigorously to secure their spot in the next round of the Champions League. Meanwhile, Real Madrid will be fully equipped for this decisive encounter on Wednesday, with Vinicius Jr. confirmed to play against the Portuguese side.

With the return leg scheduled for Wednesday, February 25, at the Santiago Bernabeu, expectations are high regarding the atmosphere in the stadium—especially after reports indicated that Benfica have reportedly decided to include Prestianni in their squad for the match. Arbeloa took the opportunity during a press conference ahead of Saturday’s LaLiga fixture against Osasuna to send a pointed message to Mourinho.

“I am not here to comment on anyone’s reflections; everyone is free to give their opinion,” Arbeloa said. “Vinicius Junior scored a fantastic goal in a great stadium and celebrated it the way we have seen hundreds of players celebrate throughout history, regardless of their condition or skin color”.

“We cannot label the victim as a provocateur; we will not allow it. I believe it is unjustifiable to accuse the victim. Nothing Vinícius Júnior does on a football pitch justifies a racist act. It is a racist act that we never want to see again—one that has no place in sport or society. We have an enormous opportunity to not let this pass and to continue fighting this scourge that is racism,” the Spaniard concluded.

The soccer world now turns its attention to the Bernabeu, where the fallout from these exchanges is expected to create a volatile environment for the decisive second leg. With UEFA investigations ongoing, the tension between the two coaching staffs has added a significant layer of drama to one of the season’s most anticipated matchups.

Real Madrid submit evidence to UEFA investigation

To clarify the situation, UEFA have launched an investigation and appointed an Ethics and Disciplinary Inspector. Real Madrid officially announced this Thursday that they have submitted all relevant evidence to support the veracity of Vinicius Jr.’s allegations.

“Real Madrid C.F. announces that it has today provided UEFA with all available evidence regarding the incidents that occurred last Tuesday, February 17, in the Champions League match our team played in Lisbon against SL Benfica,” the club stated in an official release.

While Real Madrid did not disclose specific details regarding the evidence presented, journalist Jose Luis Sanchez provided further insight on the popular Spanish program El Chiringuito de Jugones, reporting that the material consists of three key elements.

Sanchez detailed that the submission to UEFA includes: first, comprehensive video footage of the direct incident between Gianluca Prestianni and Vinicius Jr.; second, images from the stands capturing spectators making racist gestures; and third, formal statements from Real Madrid players who reportedly overheard the remarks made by the Argentine winger.

In his remarks, Mourinho appeared to question the veracity of the Brazilian’s complaint, while also suggesting that the forward should celebrate goals with his own teammates rather than in front of the opposing fans, like Benfica legend Eusebio once did. Those comments were poorly received across the sport, leading World Cup champion Lilian Thuram to slam Mourinho, stating that “there is a feeling of white superiority and narcissism in his words”.

Amidst this backdrop, the Benfica boss spoke once again on the situation ahead of their upcoming Primeira Liga fixture against AVS Futebol SAD. Following a training session, Mourinho was asked how the squad is feeling after the grueling match against Real Madrid.

“The match was truly demanding in every aspect. Up until the 50th minute, it was a game of maximum effort—both physically and tactically—requiring the concentration that a match of that level demands,” the Portuguese manager indicated.

Furthermore, without naming names, he acknowledged that the clash against the Spanish giants left a significant emotional toll due to the incident following the Real Madrid goal.

“I must also recognize that from the 51st minute until now—and our conversation doesn’t end with this—it has not been easy to emotionally manage what happened and what continues to happen. But tomorrow there is an important game that is fundamental for our ambitions and dreams, and we have to concentrate and try to play at the highest level,” he added.

Vincent Kompany rejects Mourinho’s Eusebio comparison

Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has joined the chorus of voices disagreeing with Mourinho. Kompany took particular issue with Mourinho citing the legendary Eusebio and his humble celebrations as a way to criticize Vinicius’s conduct.

“He mentions him to say that Benfica cannot be racist because the best player in the club’s history is Eusebio,” Kompany remarked during a press conference prior to Bayern Munich’s game against Eintracht Frankfurt.

“Do you know what Black footballers had to go through in the 1960s? My father is a Black man from the sixties who also fought his way through… Probably at that time, the only option they had was to be quiet, say nothing, and be ten times better than everyone else just to get a little credit. That was probably Eusébio’s life,” he added.