Iker Casillas (45) again publicly targeted Jose taxes Mourinho (62). He did not relent in his opposition even as a return to Real Madrid became likely.
German outlet Sport1 reported on the 23rd (Korea time) that Real Madrid's legendary goalkeeper Casillas left another meaningful message directed at manager Mourinho.
The rumors of Mourinho's return to Real Madrid are effectively in the countdown stage. Britain's Daily Mail recently reported that Mourinho had agreed to a two-year contract with Real Madrid. Fabrizio Romano, an expert well versed in the European transfer market, also conveyed the news that Mourinho, who is leading SL Benfica, is highly likely to head to Santiago Bernabéu after the season ends.
However, Real legend Casillas still reacted unfavorably.
Casillas posted on his social media a post listing the names of 10 managers. It included Unai Emery, Vincent Kompany, Xabi Alonso, Cesc Fàbregas, Mikel Arteta, Andoni Iraola, Zinedine Zidane, José Bordalás, Iñigo Pérez and Vicente del Bosque.
Notably, Mourinho's name was absent.
Casillas even left a meaningful ellipsis at the end of the post. Locals interpreted it as Casillas essentially sending the message that these managers are better than Mourinho.
In fact, Casillas publicly voiced his opposition to Mourinho's return just days earlier.
He said, "I have no personal problems with Mourinho. He is an excellent professional manager," but added, "However, I do not want him as the manager of the Real Madrid I love. I think other managers are more suitable."
He added, "Of course, this is only a personal opinion."
The bad blood between the two is already well known.
Mourinho managed Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. At that time he removed Casillas from the starting goalkeeper position and favored Diego López. Afterwards, the conflict between the two escalated into a major issue that rocked Spanish football.
The controversy exploded especially during the 2012-13 season. Casillas was pushed to the bench amid poor form and injuries, and at the time his partner and journalist Sara Carbonero mentioned the locker room atmosphere, leading to allegations of internal division.
Spanish media reported day after day on alleged internal clashes at Real Madrid. However, Mourinho later claimed that the real issues were Cristiano Ronaldo and tactical matters, denying that there was a serious rift with Casillas.
Casillas also did not escape criticism. As captain he did not actively stop fans' criticism of Diego López, and he was criticized for responding directly to some aggressive posts and thereby fueling the controversy. The incident remains a sensitive topic that sharply divides opinion among Real fans.
Nevertheless, Real Madrid ultimately appears to be choosing the Mourinho card.
Real is currently mired in its worst turmoil. After an early exit from the Union of European Football Associations Champions League, it also ceded the league title to Barcelona. Problems of internal conflict within the squad continue to erupt.
According to reports, Federico Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni recently engaged in a physical altercation during training, and there was also a physical clash between Álvaro Carreras and Antonio Rüdiger. Kylian Mbappé even publicly expressed dissatisfaction, claiming that coach Arbeloa told him he was the fourth-choice forward.
Ultimately, President Florentino Pérez appears to be trying to calm the situation by bringing back Mourinho, who has strong charisma and control.
Mourinho did not deny the possibility of a return. He recently said, "I have not received a direct offer from Real Madrid. But I cannot say that nothing is happening. Something is in progress."
Mourinho won one La Liga title, one Copa del Rey and one Spanish Super Cup during his previous spell at Real. He notably fashioned a fierce rivalry with Pep Guardiola's Barcelona and created a powerful era.
However, Real's living legend Casillas still remains unconvinced. This time he again revealed his thoughts with a nameless "manager list."
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