Everyone at the Santiago Bernabeu knows what it means to bring in José Mourinho as their new manager. – It will be expensive!, the chance of trophies increases and after two years, “The Special One” will get bored.
As Sporten.com writes today, there are details that remain (we’re guessing the size of the parachute) before Real Madrid and José Mourinho can sign a contract.
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Big things have to happen for Real Madrid to once again be a threat to Barcelona in La Liga and to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League. José Mourinho, who has two Champions League trophies, failed to do so the first time he was manager of Real Madrid. – The desire for it should be one of the driving forces behind his decision to let himself be bought out of his job at Benfica. (will cost approximately 3 million euros)
José Mourinho wants Rodri as the first big signing for Real Madrid. The Spaniard will lead the new project from the centre of midfield.
Real Madrid are already working on a scenario of pure grandeur before next season. And José Mourinho has made it crystal clear what must be the first big move in his new era: Rodri. The Manchester City midfielder is the Portuguese’s chosen man to transform the white midfield – and give the team immediate authority, control and the will to win.
The club knows it will not be an easy operation. But they also understand that Rodri’s contract situation could open an unexpected door.
Mourinho wants to join Real Madrid with a signing that will make its mark from day one. His priority is to strengthen the midfield with a proven leader – a player who can organise, manage big games and create balance in a squad full of attacking powers. Rodri fits that profile perfectly. He won the Ballon d’Or in 2024 and has been crucial for Manchester City for several years. If he does not renew at the Etihad, a price tag of around 60 million euros could be the key to a negotiation of the big ones.
Real Madrid listen to Mourinho: Rodri is number one priority
Mourinho’s plan is not about hoarding star names, but about bringing in profiles that instantly raise the intensity of the competition. The Portuguese believes Rodri would be much more than a reinforcement – he would be the backbone of a stronger, more recognizable and better-equipped Real Madrid. The way he reads the game, his duel strength, composure under pressure and his experience from the biggest stages make him a perfect piece for a project that screams for authority in the middle.
Real Madrid also appreciate that Rodri does not need a long time to get used to. He knows La Liga, has international experience and has competed at the highest level at Manchester City for years. Mourinho understands that such an arrival will free up the inner runners, provide better cover for the defence and more continuity of play. Therefore, he has made it clear to the club: If the real opportunity presents itself for around 60 million euros – act quickly.
Manchester City will not lose their captain
The biggest obstacle is Manchester City. The English have no plans to let go of Rodri, one of their most important pieces. His influence extends far beyond assists and goals. He organizes the team, corrects positioning, sets the tempo and provides a confidence that few midfielders in the world can match. At the Etihad, they are therefore working extremely hard to secure him – and avoid his future going into an uncertain phase.
However, the market can change dramatically if the bettor decides not to extend. In such a scenario, 60 million euros will suddenly weigh heavier. Then Manchester City must choose: stand firm, or enter into negotiations before the contract situation weakens their own position of power. Mourinho knows this. Real Madrid knows this. A transfer is only possible if Rodri himself opens the door – but the interest from Madrid is already on the table.
€60 million for Mourinho’s first big game
A sum of €60 million is exceptionally attractive for a player of Rodri’s calibre. Under normal circumstances, City would have demanded far more. For Mourinho, it would be a strategic investment like no other. He would not only bring in a world-class midfielder – but also a born leader who can withstand the weight of a huge locker room and is ready to fight for all titles from day one.
Real Madrid must move carefully. An operation of this magnitude requires discretion, patience – and a clear signal from the player himself. Mourinho has made his choice known. He wants the club to act if the opportunity arises. Rodri is his big dream. Manchester City will fight to keep him. And the 60 million could make the case one of the hottest stories of the summer.
If the transfer goes ahead, Real Madrid could give Mourinho the signing he needs to start his new cycle – with a show of power in the middle of the pitch.
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