Pepe to Return to Real Madrid as Mourinho Arrives in LaLiga

Former Portugal captain Pepe is set to return to Real Madrid as an assistant to José Mourinho.

Mourinho will be officially unveiled as Los Blancos’ new manager after Florentino Pérez won the club’s presidential election.

Pérez had already agreed a deal with Benfica for Mourinho before the elections.

The 63‑year‑old will now be joined by Pepe at the Bernabéu.

According to Marca, Pepe’s role will include strengthening the team’s defensive mentality and organization, helping create a stronger, more united dressing‑room atmosphere, and acting as a key bridge between Mourinho and the players to improve communication and understanding.

Pepe, who played for Madrid between 2007 and 2011, retired from football in 2024.