Casablanca – Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is reportedly considering former France national team coach Didier Deschamps as a possible successor to Jose Mourinho, despite the Portuguese manager having only returned to the Santiago Bernabéu this summer.
According to Spanish newspaper Sport, citing journalist Sergio Valentín, Perez has discussed Deschamps with members of his inner circle as a potential replacement if Madrid’s performances do not improve.
The report suggests that the upcoming El Clasico against Barcelona could influence the club’s assessment of Mourinho’s position, particularly if Madrid fail to secure a positive result.
There has been no official indication from Real Madrid that the club intends to replace the Portuguese coach.
Mourinho’s future in doubt
Mourinho returned to Real Madrid in June after president Perez selected him to lead the club into the 2026–2027 season.
The 63-year-old signed a three-year contract until June 2029, beginning his second spell at the Bernabeu following his previous tenure between 2010 and 2013.
His return was intended to help Madrid compete for major trophies again after two consecutive seasons without silverware.
However, the team’s inconsistent performances in the opening months of the campaign have prompted questions about whether Mourinho can deliver the improvements expected by the club.
Despite the speculation, his contract remains in place, and Madrid have not announced any change to their coaching plans.
Deschamps emerges as a possible alternative
Deschamps has been without a managerial position since leaving the French national team following the 2026 World Cup.
The 57-year-old ended a 14-year tenure with France after guiding the team to fourth place at the tournament in North America.
His spell included victory at the 2018 World Cup, a place in the 2022 final and the 2021 UEFA Nations League title.
The Frenchman had already been linked with Real Madrid before Mourinho’s appointment. His name reportedly featured among the candidates considered by the club earlier this year.
Following his departure from France, he also made clear that he had no intention of retiring from coaching and would consider opportunities at both club and international level, including in Spain.
His previous work with Kylian Mbappé could provide another connection to Madrid, where the French forward remains a central figure.
For now, however, Deschamps remains a reported alternative rather than a confirmed candidate, while Mourinho continues preparing his team for the challenges ahead.
