The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is on the horizon. Jose Mourinho, currently managing Fenerbahce in Turkey, will be among those watching the tournament from afar, not involved as a coach on the touchline.
However, speculation suggests that the renowned Portuguese manager might pursue an opportunity in Major League Soccer (MLS) sometime in the not-too-distant future. His current contract with the Istanbul club is due to end next summer, potentially leaving him free to seek a new challenge.
Known for his captivating personality and tendency to generate headlines, Mourinho is not one to shy away from difficult or high-profile roles. His arrival in the U.S. would undoubtedly bring a significant boost in attention and drama to the league.
Former France international Florent Malouda, who played under Mourinho during his time at Chelsea, shared his thoughts on this possibility. Malouda commented that any potential move to MLS would likely depend on the specific club and whether it would grant Mourinho his preferred level of control over team affairs. He noted that joining a team mid-season now would be challenging, but following the 2026 World Cup – a period anticipated to feature increased football development and possibly league expansion in North America – a figure like Mourinho “would be great for the show.”
Mourinho has reportedly shown signs of frustration at times during his tenure in Turkey, potentially making him open to a fresh start in 2026. Another frequently discussed possibility for his future is the management of the Portugal national team, a position that could become available if the current setup, involving Roberto Martinez and star player Cristiano Ronaldo, underperforms in upcoming major international competitions.
