As the “Mourinho Operation” moves into high gear, the 63-year-old manager has reportedly made it clear that he will not return to the Bernabéu just to be a “coach.” Following Real Madrid’s painful loss in the Clásico and the collapse of the locker room, José Mourinho has set two non-negotiable conditions before he signs any contract.
According to reports from AS and Goal, the Portuguese master tactician wants to ensure he has the “tools and the shield” necessary to fix a club in crisis.
Condition 1: Total Control Over Recruitment
Mourinho’s first demand is a “significant voice” in the club’s transfer activity.
- The Problem: Mourinho reportedly views the current squad as “unbalanced” and “lopsided.” He believes the team has too many stars in some areas (like attack) and not enough grit or depth in others (like defense).
- The Request: He wants to decide which positions need strengthening, rather than simply being given “individual names” chosen by the board. He wants to build the spine of the team his way, just as he did with the signings of Modrić and Özil during his first stint.
Condition 2: Autonomy of the “First-Team Bubble”
The second condition is about power and protection. Mourinho is insisting that the hierarchy and autonomy of the coaching staff be strictly respected.
- No Interference: He wants the first-team environment to carry his personal seal, completely free from “external interference” from club directors or the media that might destabilize the dressing room.
- Zero Drama: After witnessing the Valverde-Tchouaméni fight and the reported player complaints against the previous staff, Mourinho wants total disciplinary authority. In his view, the manager’s word must be law to restore the broken order at Valdebebas.
The “Mourinho Rebuild” List
While these are his conditions, rumors are already swirling about who stays and who goes. Reports suggest Mourinho has already identified:
- 5 Potential Exits: Including players he believes contribute to the toxic atmosphere.
- 3 Priority Signings: Including a creative “ball-control” midfielder and a “dynamic” right winger to balance the team.
RMxtra Verdict: The Medicine We Need?
For many fans, these conditions are exactly what Real Madrid needs. For too long, the dressing room has felt like it has no “boss.” Mourinho is a manager who demands absolute loyalty and provides a “shield” for his players—as long as they follow his rules.
If Florentino Pérez accepts these terms, we aren’t just getting a new coach; we are getting a complete cultural reset.