According to a report by Fabrizio Romano on Sunday, October 18, 2026Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez has reportedly begun considering José Mourinho's future at the club, with French coach Didier Deschamps emerging as a potential replacement if the team's performances fail to improve.

According to a report published by the Times of India on October 18, 2026, Spanish journalist Sergio Valentín claims that Pérez has informed people close to him that Mourinho could be dismissed if results do not improve in the coming weeks. The report has sparked discussions among Real Madrid supporters about the Portuguese manager's future.

Mourinho's return to Real Madrid was expected to bring greater stability, discipline and competitiveness to a club accustomed to competing for major trophies. However, reports of an inconsistent start to the campaign have raised questions about whether the manager can meet the expectations of the club's leadership.

Pérez is reportedly monitoring the situation, with upcoming matches potentially playing an important role in determining Mourinho's future. Real Madrid are known for their high expectations, and coaches are often judged by their ability to deliver results in domestic and European competitions.

Deschamps has reportedly been identified as a possible successor should Real Madrid decide to make a managerial change. The Frenchman brings considerable experience from his time managing the France national team, which he led to victory at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

Under Deschamps, France also reached the final of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, demonstrating his ability to guide a team through major international tournaments. His experience working with elite footballers could make him an option for Real Madrid if the club decides to pursue a different direction.

However, managing a national team differs significantly from coaching a club side. At Real Madrid, a manager must oversee training sessions, squad rotation and a demanding schedule of domestic league matches and European fixtures.

Mourinho also has a history with the Spanish giants. During his first spell between 2010 and 2013, he won La Liga, the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup. His previous experience at the Santiago Bernabéu was one of the factors that made his return an important talking point.

Despite the speculation, Real Madrid have not officially confirmed plans to dismiss Mourinho or appoint Deschamps. The reported discussions remain unconfirmed, meaning the Portuguese coach could still have an opportunity to improve the team's performances and strengthen his position.

For now, attention will remain on Real Madrid's results and any further developments surrounding the manager's future. Whether Mourinho can turn the situation around or Deschamps eventually becomes a candidate for the position remains to be seen.