​Former World Cup winner Sami Khedira has joined the Real Madrid coaching staff, aligning with manager José Mourinho, under whom Khedira spent a productive five-year spell as a player. Real Madrid shared the news on their official website Friday, posting a photo that included Mourinho and his newly assembled coaching team along with Khedira, signaling a return to the club in a different capacity.
Khedira expressed enthusiasm for the new role, telling DAZN in a statement that the position at Real Madrid presents a chance to take the next step in his sporting career. The streaming platform, where Khedira had been working since stepping away from competitive play, published his remarks, highlighting his excitement to contribute to the club in a coaching and advisory capacity.
Mourinho originally brought Khedira to Real Madrid at the start of his first tenure in 2010. The German midfielder made 161 appearances for the club across five seasons, leaving a lasting mark that culminated in winning the Champions League title in 2014 under then-manager Carlo Ancelotti. Khedira’s career with Real Madrid was one of notable achievements, including domestic and European successes during a high-profile era for the club.
After retiring from professional football in 2021, Khedira transitioned into punditry, offering analysis and insights on the game. He described his post-playing career with DAZN as an opportunity to view football from a new perspective and to share his experiences with fans, enriching their understanding of the sport through informed commentary.
Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid follows a period of transitional changes at the club. Real Madrid had previously bid farewell to Xabi Alonso and Alvaro Arbeloa as part of a broader reshuffle following a trophyless season. Mourinho’s initial Real Madrid tenure, from 2010 to 2013, saw the club secure the La Liga title, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup, underscoring a successful first spell in charge.
As pre-season training approaches, Mourinho spoke to Real Madrid TV on Friday, emphasizing the honor and responsibility of working for the club. He framed the role not only as a professional opportunity but also as a commitment to upholding Real Madrid’s standards and traditions, reinforcing his intent to lead the team with the same dedication that defined his early era in charge.
Khedira’s return to the Santiago Bernabéu, even in a managerial or advisory capacity, adds another layer of experience to an already strong Real Madrid staff. His firsthand memory of the club’s culture, the discipline required at the highest level, and his firsthand experience of success with Mourinho and with Real Madrid could prove invaluable in mentoring current players and shaping the team’s approach as they navigate a demanding season ahead.
As the squad reconvenes for pre-season activity, Real Madrid is positioning itself to optimize its coaching lineup, leveraging Khedira’s on-field intelligence and tactical understanding, along with Mourinho’s proven leadership and strategic vision. The club’s communications emphasize a renewed sense of purpose, aiming to build on past achievements while pursuing new successes in both domestic and European competitions.