Real Madrid’s bold Mourinho return sparks Valdano’s doubts

Real Madrid have re‑appointed Jose Mourinho as head coach this summer, a move that has drawn sharp criticism from former club legend Jorge Valdano, who publicly questioned the logic behind bringing the ‘Special One’ back to the Bernabeu and wondered what point it serves for the club.

The appointment came earlier this summer, marking a bold decision by Real Madrid’s hierarchy. It arrived amid intense criticism and uncertainty surrounding the club’s direction.

Mourinho, long regarded as a manager of yesteryear, has projected positive vibes since his return. He has also been credited with shaping the club’s aggressive transfer policy, a departure from recent approaches.

Former Real Madrid player, manager and sporting director Jorge Valdano voiced strong doubts. Valdano told Portuguese outlet A Bola that he “doesn’t know what the point is for Jose Mourinho to return to this responsibility; only the club knows”. He added that Real Madrid’s options for coaches are dwindling, suggesting Florentino Pérez opted for a different type of coach.

Valdano also questioned whether Mourinho could finally deliver the Champions League. He noted that almost fifteen years have passed, and “football is not the same, society is not the same, Florentino is not the same, and Mourinho certainly won’t be either”. He concluded that the outcome will have to be seen.

The scepticism reflects a long‑standing history between the two men. Valdano and Mourinho worked together during Mourinho’s first spell at Real Madrid, but friction eventually damaged their relationship. Valdano left his post while Mourinho remained for another two years. Despite this, Valdano said he is “the least resentful person in the world; conflicts don’t last long for me, I move on very easily”.

Mourinho now aims to prove the doubters, including Valdano, wrong. Having overseen an ambitious summer rebuild, he possesses the tools to make an immediate impact. He is targeting silverware in his first season back.