Guti Mourinho Real Madrid criticism as former midfielder says club should consider better in-form coaches instead of José Mourinho

Former Real Madrid midfielder José María Gutiérrez, popularly known as Guti, has said José Mourinho has moved beyond his managerial peak, urging the Spanish giants to consider alternative coaching options as they evaluate future appointments.

Also read: Mbappe and Vinicius Fire Real Madrid Past Alaves in Tight Win

Speaking on Monday, Guti suggested that Real Madrid should look beyond the Portuguese manager, arguing that other coaches currently offer stronger long-term prospects.

As quoted by GOAL, Guti described Mourinho as a “great coach” but insisted his most influential years were behind him.

“Mourinho is a great coach, but I think his prime phase is not now,” he said.

“In the sense that he comes from Fenerbahce, he took Benfica at a very bad time, and I think there are coaches in a better state than Mourinho that I would sign.”

The comments have sparked renewed debate around Mourinho’s standing among Europe’s elite managers, with opinions divided over his current relevance at the highest level of the game.

Mourinho previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013 in a high-profile spell that brought domestic success.

During his tenure, he guided the club to a La Liga title, though he was unable to deliver the UEFA Champions League, a trophy that remains central to Madrid’s ambitions.

The Portuguese coach, widely regarded as one of football’s most decorated managers, has since taken charge of several top European clubs, maintaining a reputation for tactical discipline and competitive intensity.

Also read: Luis Figo Issues Stark Warning Over Real Madrid Trophy Drought

Guti’s remarks add a fresh layer to ongoing discussions about managerial evolution in modern football, particularly at clubs with elite expectations such as Real Madrid.