Jose Mourinho says Real Madrid as ‘Corazon’ after official Presentation as Head Coach

Jose Mourinho has officially begun his second stint as Real Madrid head coach after being presented by club president Florentino Pérez at a closed-door ceremony at the club’s Ciudad Real Madrid headquarters on Tuesday.

In an unusual departure from the club’s traditional presentation ceremonies, the event was not open to the media or supporters. Real Madrid TV, along with the club’s official website and social media channels, provided the only images from the presentation. Mourinho signed a contract that will keep him at the Santiago Bernabéu until June 30, 2029, confirming a three-season agreement.

Following the signing, Mourinho received a replica of the Santiago Bernabéu, a watch and a Real Madrid shirt bearing his name. Honorary club president José Martínez Pirri was also present at the ceremony.

In a message directed towards Madrid supporters, Mourinho underlined his emotional connection with the club.

“I’m one of you,” Mourinho said. “And not just today, but since I arrived in 2010 and after I left in 2013, always with you. … To return to Real Madrid is to return home.”

When asked about describing Real Madrid in one word, Mourinho termed it as ‘Corazon’, which means Heart.

Mourinho first managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. His 2011-12 league-winning side set a then-record points tally of 100 and scored 121 goals.

The Portuguese coach returns to Madrid after spells with Chelsea, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma, Fenerbahce and Benfica. Real Madrid’s official profile lists his career as including two Champions League titles, three Premier League titles and league championships in England, Italy, Portugal and Spain.

His second arrival comes as Madrid look to rebuild after a second successive season without a major trophy. Mourinho has replaced Álvaro Arbeloa and will inherit a squad led by Kylian Mbappé, Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham, while the club has also strengthened its ranks with several new arrivals.

In this summer, Real Madrid have roped in Ibrahima Konate, Bernardo Silva for free, while Marc Cucurella has also joined from Chelsea. They also signed Yan Diomande, while a couple of more incomings are likely as well.