Mourinho and Ronaldo set for SENSATIONAL dream reunion

Suraj Radia

Updated: 23 Apr 2025 13:20 BST
4 min read

Jose Mourinho, Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal — © IMAGO

Jose Mourinho could finally secure his dream job and reunite with Cristiano Ronaldo in the process after stunning reports that the Fenerbahce manager is being lined up to lead Portugal at the 2026 World Cup.

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Mourinho has made no secret of his ambition to one day manage his native country but the 62-year-old has instead focused on club management and revealed he rejected an offer from Portugal while at Roma two years ago.

However, Mourinho has endured a mixed time during his first season at Fenerbahce, with the Turkish side set to miss out on the Super Lig title once again and also having been knocked out of the Champions League and Europa League.

Despite difficulties on and off the pitch for Mourinho, the former Real Madrid manager is thought to be in line to replace Roberto Martinez this summer even if the Spanish coach wins the Nations League tournament, according to CNN.

Mourinho is understood to have a clause in his contract allowing him to negotiate freely for the Portugal job if it ever came up and talks are rumoured to already be underway between both parties.

Mourinho aiming to make up for lost time with Portugal job

Mourinho’s sensational appointment could see him reunite with Ronaldo after their successful period at Real Madrid, with the forward still on course to feature for Portugal at next year’s World Cup when he will be 41.

Ronaldo and Mourinho have had a turbulent relationship over their careers but it has been reported that neither will have an issue at the appointment and that both are looking forward to the prospect.

© IMAGO - Jose Mourinho and Cristiano Ronaldo were successful together at Real Madrid.

Mourinho admitted last year that he regretted turning down Portugal while at Roma and insisted he would make up for his decision by accepting any future approach from his country.

“I think I was emotional when I didn’t accept and decided to stay at Roma,” Mourinho told EA Sports Korea. “I think I made a mistake. Portugal wanted me twice and I think they will want me a third time, one day. And then I will accept it.”

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