Jose Mourinho has just completed 100 days in charge of Real Madrid in his second spell at the club, but it looks like his future is already uncertain.
Despite the Portuguese manager showing a lot of positive signs in these first three months, Florentino Perez is said to be monitoring alternative managerial options.
According to Defensa Central, journalist Jorge Picon has suggested that Mikel Arteta and Cesc Fabregas are two coaches whose work is being closely followed by Madrid’s hierarchy.
El Clasico could increase pressure on Mourinho
Despite winning nine of his first 11 matches since returning to Madrid, Mourinho has failed to convince everyone within the club’s leadership.
The concerns are understood to centre on the team’s performances rather than results alone, with some board members questioning the lack of convincing displays.
A defeat against Barcelona on Sunday could intensify those doubts and potentially put his position at risk.
Jose could lose his job at Real Madrid if things don’t turn around. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Mourinho returned to the Santiago Bernabeu in June on a three-year contract, making any early managerial change a significant decision.
The Portuguese coach also retains support within the dressing room, but falling nine points behind Barcelona might not be acceptable for the Madrid board.
Arteta and Fabregas on Madrid’s radar
Arteta and Fabregas have emerged as two particularly attractive managerial candidates for the future.
Arteta has established himself at Arsenal and recently extended his contract until 2030, making any potential appointment complicated.
Fabregas, meanwhile, continues his managerial career at Como, where his current agreement runs until 2028.
Real Madrid are monitoring Cesc Fabregas. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Former France manager Didier Deschamps has also previously been mentioned as a possible option.
However, there is no indication that Madrid have opened formal negotiations with any potential replacement.
Dismissing Mourinho after such a short period would represent a major gamble, particularly while the squad is still adapting to his methods.
Nevertheless, Madrid’s expectations extend beyond winning matches, and Jose will understand the importance of Sunday’s fixture.
For now, Mourinho remains in charge, and it seems unlikely that Madrid will take any harsh decisions so soon. It remains to be seen how his team fares against Barça this Sunday.