
Brighton set for first purpose-built stadium for women's football in UK and Europe
Brighton announces plans for the first women's football stadium in the UK and Europe!
Jose Mourinho is the preferred candidate of Real Madrid president Florentino Perez to replace Alvaro Arbeloa, who has struggled since taking over. Mourinho has a €3 million break clause in his contract with Benfica, potentially facilitating his return to the club this summer.
Mentioned in this story
Just in – Mourinho is Real Madrid president’s favourite candidate to replace Arbeloa; has €3m break clause
In a major development, David Ornstein and Mario Cortegana of The Athletic report that Jose Mourinho has emerged as Real Madrid president Florentino Perez’s favourite candidate to replace Alvaro Arbeloa.
The Portuguese tactician, who is currently in charge of Benfica, has a €3 million break clause in his contract with the club, which could pave the way for a return to the Bernabeu in the summer.
Arbeloa took charge of the Real Madrid first team in January after the sacking of Xabi Alonso. However, things have simply not gone his way, with the Merengues set to finish the season without any trophies.
With reports of dressing room unrest growing as well, Real Madrid have decided to make changes in the summer, with Arbeloa set to depart.
And, now, according to The Athletic, Mourinho is seen as the ideal candidate by Perez, who has taken it fully upon himself to make the right managerial appointment this time around.
Set to return to the Bernabeu? (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
Last summer, when Carlo Ancelotti left, Alonso’s appointment was chiefly driven by club CEO Jose Angel Sanchez, with Perez only giving the final green light.
This time around, the president wants to be in full control of the decision and sees Mourinho as the right pick.
Jose Mourinho is seen as the favorite candidate due to his experience and past success with the club, alongside Arbeloa's disappointing performance this season.
Mourinho has a €3 million break clause in his contract with Benfica, allowing Real Madrid to potentially secure his services at that cost.
If appointed, Mourinho could return to Real Madrid in the summer, following the conclusion of the current season.

Brighton announces plans for the first women's football stadium in the UK and Europe!
John Stones is set to depart Manchester City after ten successful years.
Cooper Flagg wins ROY; Whitecaps relocation rumors; LIV Golf event postponed.
Nate Diaz returns to face Mike Perry on May 16 in a highly anticipated matchup!
Tim Sherwood rips into Chelsea players for lack of commitment after win over Leeds.
Juventus is prioritizing a contract extension for defender Pierre Kalulu, who is currently under contract until 2029. The club is concerned about interest from Manchester United and aims to address his low salary compared to other players.
See every story in Sports — including breaking news and analysis.
Mourinho left Real Madrid in 2013 after three years at the club, during which he won one La Liga, one Copa del Rey, and one Spanish Super Cup.
His time at the Spanish capital club was filled with controversy, due to the heated rivalry with Barcelona, as well as the dressing room problems, mainly concerning his fallout with then-captain Iker Casillar.
Moreover, his recent criticism of Real Madrid superstar Vinicius Jr. might also be a concern if Perez decides to press ahead with the Portuguese tactician’s appointment.