Jose Mourinho is wasting little time in reshaping Real Madrid as reports indicate the Portuguese manager is set to bring club legend Pepe into his coaching staff.
The move comes after Florentino Perez secured re-election as Real Madrid president, clearing the way for Mourinho’s anticipated return to the Santiago Bernabeu as the club seeks to end a two-year trophy drought.
Perez reportedly won 65 percent of the vote in the presidential election, strengthening his position at the helm of the Spanish giants.
Mourinho’s return had been heavily linked to the outcome of the election, with reports suggesting an agreement was already in place pending Perez’s victory over challenger Enrique Riquelme.
Although the club has yet to make an official announcement, sources close to the situation believe confirmation is only a matter of time.
While Mourinho has already been linked with transfer moves for defenders Ibrahima Konate and Denzel Dumfries, his first major appointment could arrive behind the scenes.
According to reports from Spain, former Real Madrid defender Pepe is poised to join the coaching staff and begin the next chapter of his football career after retiring from professional football in 2024.
Pepe enjoyed a decade-long spell at Real Madrid between 2007 and 2017, making 334 appearances and helping the club win numerous major honours, including three UEFA Champions League titles.
The Portuguese defender was one of Mourinho’s most trusted players during their time together in Madrid from 2010 to 2013, earning a reputation for his commitment, leadership, and fierce competitive spirit.
Mourinho is said to value Pepe’s deep understanding of Real Madrid’s culture and dressing-room environment.
The former Portugal international is expected to act as a bridge between the coaching staff and players, bringing experience, authority, and knowledge of what it takes to succeed at one of the world’s biggest clubs.
Despite speculation linking Alvaro Arbeloa with a role in Mourinho’s backroom team, Pepe has reportedly emerged as the preferred choice.
With Perez beginning a new presidential term and Mourinho preparing for a second spell in charge, Real Madrid appear determined to restore their place at the top of Spanish and European football.
