Florentino Pérez has been re-elected as president of Real Madrid by a wide margin, securing another term that could pave the way for the return of José Mourinho as manager.
The 79-year-old, who has led the club for 23 years across two separate spells, won 65 percent of the vote, defeating 37-year-old challenger Enrique Riquelme in elections announced late Sunday.
Following his victory, Pérez reaffirmed his commitment to continued success at the Spanish giants.
“We have won the elections and will continue working to keep winning titles,” he said.
The result is expected to clear the path for Mourinho’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu, with the Portuguese coach set to be announced as manager as early as Monday.
Reports indicate that Real Madrid will pay Benfica a release fee of around €15 million ($17.25 million) to secure the 63-year-old’s services.
Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, a tenure during which he won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup while engaging in a fierce rivalry with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.
Pérez praised the prospect of Mourinho’s return, describing him as one of the world’s best coaches and a “Madridista.”
“We will continue to take pride in the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, the best stadium in the world,” Pérez said. “Proud to have the best players in the world, proud to welcome back one of the best coaches in the world.”
The president also referenced the club’s ambition to reclaim European glory after a trophyless 2025/26 season.
“We will continue working so that Real Madrid keeps winning titles,” he said. “And we will fight until the end to achieve the 16th European Cup.”
Mourinho’s return marks a significant gamble for the club, given his divisive reputation but proven track record at the highest level.
His appointment follows Real Madrid’s second consecutive season without a major trophy, increasing pressure on the club’s leadership to restore dominance in European football.
The club remains owned by its members, who elect the president, a structure Pérez reaffirmed in his victory speech.
“Rest assured,” he said, “with me as president, Real Madrid has been, is, and will always remain owned by its members.”
