José Mourinho explains why he returned to Real Madrid this summer

José Mourinho explained on “Bet it drive show” why he returned to Real Madrid last summer. The Portuguese coach says the club wanted him back and that the way they approached him also mattered, after his departure in 2013: “We always kept a close relationship.”

The rebuild request

Mourinho adds that, after last season, Real Madrid got in touch with a clear message: “We want you to rebuild the team… We need you.” He admits he was “happy at Benfica” in Portugal, but insists a return to Madrid is “the Real Madrid” and that everyone understood it was a big chance.

Rules and communication

On his working method, he stresses constant communication with players: he lays out his plan for each match, but insists on hearing whether they feel able to carry out the tasks. He also draws a line between “non-negotiable” rules outside the pitch (like arriving on time) and room for creativity during the game, where players can take risks. “You don’t train footballers, you train men,” he said, stressing that players live “24 hours a day” for the job.