Karanka reveals Mourinho's failed Real Madrid comeback: 'There were approaches'
Former Madrid assistant coach Aitor Karanka has confirmed that José Mourinho came close to a sensational return to the Bernabéu in recent years.
The Special One nearly made a special return to the Spanish capital, according to his former right-hand man.
Mourinho’s Madrid reunion that never was
Aitor Karanka, who served as José Mourinho’s assistant at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, has dropped a bombshell by confirming that the Portuguese manager nearly returned to the Bernabéu in recent years.
Speaking to Josep Pedrerol on ‘El Cafelito’, Karanka was put on the spot about whether Mourinho would fancy another crack at the Madrid hot seat. The 52-year-old former defender, now working with the Spanish FA, initially responded with a knowing smile before revealing the truth.
“I believe Mourinho has had some opportunity” to return to Real Madrid, Karanka admitted, though he was coy about exactly when these discussions took place.
When pressed further about these approaches, Karanka confirmed: “From what I know, at some point yes… I don’t remember exactly how long ago either…”
Timing is everything
So why didn’t we see the Special One back in the Spanish capital? According to Karanka, it was simply a matter of timing:
- Mourinho may have been mid-season with another club
- He might have been committed to another project
- The stars simply didn’t align
Karanka was quick to highlight that “nobody would be surprised by the relationship between José Mourinho and the Real Madrid president” Florentino Pérez, suggesting the pair have maintained a strong connection despite Mourinho’s departure in 2013.
The Guardiola factor
In a cheeky aside that will delight Madrid fans, Karanka also mentioned that “Mourinho drove Guardiola crazy” during their fierce rivalry in Spain - a comment that harks back to the most intense period of El Clásico battles when Pep was at Barcelona.
Karanka, who’s currently the technical director for development and the men’s national team at the Spanish Football Federation, also expressed his hope that current Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa will enjoy a long stint at the helm, noting the importance of Spanish-trained coaches for the national game.
One thing’s for certain - the thought of Mourinho returning to Madrid would’ve had fans going absolutely Barney Rubble. Maybe next time, José.