Jose Mourinho will take over as Real Madrid manager with former Portugal captain Pepe joining him as an assistant, the club confirmed after Florentino Perez won the presidential election.
Perez had already negotiated Mourinho's appointment with Benfica before the election took place. The 63-year-old Portuguese coach will now have Pepe, 41, at his side when he arrives at the Bernabeu.
Perez has tasked Pepe with shoring up Real Madrid's defensive structure and mentality. The former centre-back will work to build a more cohesive dressing room atmosphere and serve as a link between Mourinho and the squad, helping smooth communication and understanding between manager and players.
Perpe spent four seasons at Real Madrid between 2007 and 2011, establishing himself as one of Europe's finest defenders during that period. He retired from professional football in 2024 after a long career that saw him become Portugal's most capped outfield player. His appointment marks a return to the club where he built much of his reputation, and his defensive credentials give him immediate credibility with Madrid's backline as the club seeks to tighten its shape under Mourinho's demanding system.
