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Real Madrid’s dual dilemma: Mourinho vs. Mbappe

Real Madrid is reportedly in advanced talks with Jose Mourinho for a managerial return, amidst growing internal frustration over Kylian Mbappe’s conduct.

Aksel Kryhlmand

·

May 12, 2026

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Real Madrid finds itself at a critical juncture, reportedly in advanced negotiations for the return of former manager Jose Mourinho, while simultaneously grappling with growing internal discontent surrounding star forward Kylian Mbappe.

Sources indicate that Real Madrid and Jose Mourinho are in direct contact, with a verbal offer already extended regarding the managerial vacancy. Mourinho’s potential return comes despite a well-documented past, including a rift that developed between him and the Real Madrid dressing room during his previous tenure.

This tension was particularly highlighted after on-field incidents in a game against Benfica, where Mourinho publicly supported Gianluca Prestianni following a racial abuse incident involving Vinicius Jr.

Mourinho’s potential return

Surprisingly, Vinicius Jr. appears to be a proponent of Mourinho’s comeback. According to El Chiringuito, cited by Madrid Universal, the Brazilian forward believes there is nothing to clear up from the past, stating that “what happened in the past must stay there.” Vinicius Jr. views Mourinho’s arrival as a positive step, convinced that the Portuguese coach will ensure Real Madrid plays as a collective unit rather than for individuals, making him the candidate the club requires.

Mbappe’s growing internal issues

While managerial changes loom, attention has also turned to Kylian Mbappe, whose recent actions have reportedly caused significant frustration within the club. The 27-year-old France captain was notably absent from Real Madrid’s recent 2-0 loss to FC Barcelona in El Clasico. Mbappe pulled out of training on the day of the match due to discomfort, leading to his exclusion from the squad.

However, some within Real Madrid suspect Mbappe’s decision to withdraw was influenced by learning he would not start the Clasico, but only feature as a substitute. This incident follows a period of absence for Mbappe, who has not been on the field for Real Madrid since the 1-1 draw against Real Betis, which marked his 100th appearance for the club. He suffered a hamstring injury after that match.

Further exacerbating tensions, Mbappe’s trip to Italy with his partner during his recovery did not sit well with either the dressing room or the club’s hierarchy, especially as medical staff had not expected him to recover fully in time for the Clasico. Despite training with the team the Saturday before the Clasico, his subsequent withdrawal due to “discomfort” on match day led to palpable frustration among the training ground staff.

A previous training ground altercation with a member of Alvaro Arbeloa’s staff leading up to the Real Betis game had already raised eyebrows.

The sentiment of growing disappointment with Mbappe is felt across all levels within Real Madrid, as reported by The Athletic. An Instagram post made by Mbappe supporting his teammates while Los Blancos were already trailing by two goals at the Spotify Camp Nou was negatively received by staff and teammates alike, drawing criticism from fans.

Adding to the uncertainty, a source from within the club suggested, “Mbappe might not play again this season as he does not want to face the fans at the Santiago Bernabeu after already being booed and whistled at once this season.” While some Spanish media reports affirm Mbappe’s full commitment to a swift recovery, the current situation paints a picture of significant internal challenges for Real Madrid as the season draws to a close.

Sources: madriduniversal.com, El Chiringuito