Jose Mourinho is reportedly on the verge of a stunning return to Real Madrid, with advanced talks underway to replace current manager Alvaro Arbeloa. The 63-year-old's potential comeback comes as a surprise, given his recent absence from elite-level management, but Madrid's current crisis—both on and off the pitch—has prompted club president Florentino Perez to turn to the Portuguese tactician. Perez believes Mourinho can restore order to a squad in turmoil.
As the summer transfer window approaches, several high-profile stars face uncertain futures, and Mourinho is expected to have significant influence over squad decisions. Here's a look at the biggest names who could be on their way out:
Vinicius Junior: The Brazilian winger has been in scintillating form this season, netting 15 goals and providing six assists in 35 La Liga appearances. However, his contract runs until 2027, and he has yet to sign an extension. Vinicius is reportedly seeking wages on par with Kylian Mbappe, but Madrid is reluctant to meet his demands. With the club unwilling to risk losing a prized asset on a free transfer, they may look for suitors if negotiations stall.
Eduardo Camavinga: The 23-year-old midfielder has endured a forgettable season, making just 16 league starts and being omitted from Didier Deschamps' 2026 World Cup squad. Despite his struggles, Camavinga remains a highly sought-after talent, with Premier League clubs circling. Madrid could recoup a significant fee for the former Rennes star, making him a prime candidate for a summer exit.
Kylian Mbappe: The French superstar has been electric in 2025-26, racking up 41 goals and seven assists in 42 appearances across all competitions. Yet, off-field controversy has clouded his season. A recent incident involving Mbappe and his partner sparked a massive online backlash, with a petition demanding his removal gathering an astonishing 40 million signatures. While Madrid is unlikely to make transfer decisions based on fan petitions, the tension adds uncertainty to his future.
Federico Valverde: The Uruguayan has been a linchpin for Madrid in recent seasons, starting 30 La Liga matches this campaign and contributing 13 goals and assists combined. However, with Mourinho's arrival potentially signaling a tactical overhaul, even key players like Valverde could find themselves on the chopping block if they don't fit the new manager's plans.
With Mourinho's no-nonsense approach and Perez's backing, Real Madrid's summer transfer window promises to be a dramatic one. Stay tuned for updates on which stars will don the famous white jersey next season—and which ones will be packing their bags.