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Mourinho meets Perez over Real Madrid return

The managerial merry-go-round at Santiago Bernabeu has taken a sensational turn with reports of a high-level summit between two of football's biggest power brokers. Jose Mourinho has moved into the spotlight as a serious candidate to retake the reins at Real Madrid following direct talks with club president Florentino Perez.

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Prestianni's ban for homophobia extended worldwide by FIFA

FIFA have extended Gianluca Prestianni's ban for homophobic conduct globally, meaning he could now miss Argentina's first two games at the 2026 World Cup. The Benfica winger, who was sanctioned following a high-profile clash with Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior, will now see his club-level suspension apply to international competitive fixtures.

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Benfica raid PL for Mourinho heir & deal blow to Chelsea hunt

Benfica have set their sights on Fulham manager Marco Silva as the primary candidate to succeed Jose Mourinho at Estadio da Luz. This potential move creates a significant hurdle for Chelsea, who have also shortlisted the Portuguese tactician as they seek a permanent successor to Liam Rosenior ahead of a crucial summer rebuild.

AFC Ajax v SL Benfica - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD5

Benfica star hoping 'formidable' Mourinho snubs Real Madrid return

Jose Mourinho is once again at the centre of a whirlwind of speculation as Real Madrid president Florentino Perez reportedly eyes a sensational move to bring the Portuguese tactician back to the Bernabeu. However, Benfica midfielder Richard Rios is hopeful that the ex-Chelsea boss will stay put, having learned a lot from him during his first season back in charge at the Estadio da Luz.

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Mourinho responds to Real Madrid return reports

Jose Mourinho has directly responded to the growing speculation linking him with a sensational return to Real Madrid as a replacement for Alvaro Arbeloa. The legendary Portuguese coach, currently in charge of Benfica, also took a moment to reflect on his emotional tenure at Roma, describing the Italian capital as the standout environment of his illustrious career.

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Mourinho's Real return is on! Perez favours Benfica boss to replace Arbeloa

Jose Mourinho is reportedly the leading candidate to return to Real Madrid as head coach if Alvaro Arbeloa is sacked. Club president Florentino Perez is reportedly driving the pursuit of the current Benfica boss to lift the squad after a difficult campaign. With a manageable break clause in his contract, the 'Special One' could be set for a sensational second act at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Chelsea FC v SL Benfica - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD2

‘Something would have to change’ - Chelsea’s stance on Mourinho

Chelsea’s hierarchy is reportedly resistant to the idea of appointing Jose Mourinho for a third managerial spell despite growing fan pressure following Liam Rosenior’s exit. While the legendary Portuguese coach is currently excelling at Benfica, club insiders suggest that a fairytale return to west London is unlikely as the board prioritises other candidates.

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‘No words’ - Newcastle warned off huge gamble on Mourinho

Newcastle have been warned off taking a huge gamble on Jose Mourinho, with Michael Owen explaining to GOAL why Eddie Howe sack talk at St James’ Park has left him baffled. The Magpies are, in the midst of a disappointing 2025-26 campaign, reported to be considering a change in their dugout. Former Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham boss Mourinho has seen a Premier League return speculated on.

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Mourinho casts doubt on Benfica future

Jose Mourinho has sent shockwaves through Lisbon by refusing to guarantee his stay at Benfica beyond the current season. Speaking ahead of a massive derby clash against Sporting CP, the legendary manager suggested that his future is not entirely in his own hands as speculation over a return to the elite continues to mount.

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Benfica boss Mourinho still 'the best of all', insists Pavlidis

Benfica striker Vangelis Pavlidis has heaped praise on Jose Mourinho, insisting that the legendary tactician is still the finest manager in the world. Following a prolific season under the Portuguese's guidance in Lisbon, the Greece international highlighted Mourinho's unique passion for the game and his unparalleled ability to manage elite talent at the highest level.

SL Benfica v SSC Napoli - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6

Napoli target Benfica star in €30m summer deal

Napoli have identified Benfica midfielder Richard Rios as their top target for the summer transfer window and have already opened talks over a potential €30 million move. Sporting director Giovanni Manna is leading negotiations as the Serie A side attempt to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season.

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Benfica president speaks out on Mourinho future

Benfica have moved swiftly to quash mounting speculation surrounding the future of head coach Jose Mourinho. Following a disappointing draw that dealt a heavy blow to their title aspirations, both the club hierarchy and the two-time Champions League winner have strongly reaffirmed their commitment, insisting the 63-year-old remains firmly at the helm.

Frequently asked questions

Fifteen players from the Aston Villa Wesleyan Chapel cricket team formed the Aston Villa Football Club in the 1870s.

Aston Villa are owned by V Sports, a joint venture between billionaires Nassef Sawiris and Wesley Edens. Atairos, an investment company based in the UK, became a minority partner of V Sports in April 2024.

Aston Villa play all their home games at the Villa Park since 1897.

Villa Park has a capacity of over 42,000 and has hosted more FA Cup semi-final games than any other stadium in history.

Aston Villa have won 22 titles throughout their history, including seven English top-flight titles, one European Cup (now known as the Champions League), and seven FA Cups.

Aston Villa have won seven top-flight titles, but have failed to clinch a league trophy in the Premier League era. They last won the first division in the 1980-81 season.

Former Scottish left-back Charlie Aitken has made the most appearances for Aston Villa, featuring in 660 games for the club from 1961 to 1975.

One of the greatest players to ever play for Aston Villa, Billy Walker is the club's record goalscorer of all-time with 244 goals to his name.

Jack Grealish, Dwight Yorke, Emiliano Martinez, Gordon Cowans, and Gareth Barry are among the most respectable players in Aston Villa history, with the club also luring legends like Peter Schmeichel and Paul McGrath.

Steven Gerrard, Steve Bruce, Gerard Houllier and Unai Emery are among the big names to have led Aston Villa during its illustrious history.

Aston Villa are famously known as The Villans. The name 'Villa' is derived from the Villa Cross Wesleyan Church, whose former cricket club passed on the name to the club.