Real Madrid unveils Mourinho as new manager in closed-door ceremony

Jose Mourinho was officially presented as Real Madrid's new manager on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, in an unusually private ceremony at the club's training complex, marking the beginning of his second spell in charge. The Portuguese coach signed a contract that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2029, in a subdued event attended only by club officials, including president Florentino Perez and honorary president Jose Martinez Pirri.

The unveiling took place in the boardroom at Ciudad Real Madrid, closed to media and fans, with access granted solely to Real Madrid TV. Mourinho watched a video compilation of his previous tenure and the current preseason before signing his contract and posing with a personalized shirt. He was also presented with a replica of the stadium, a watch, and a commemorative jersey. This discreet approach represents a new policy for the club, which will present all summer signings in similar closed-door ceremonies without public attendance.

"This is coming home," Mourinho stated in a message to supporters. "Emotionally, it's even better than the first time because back then it was a feeling of reaching the very top of the world, whereas now it's more...