In the always changing landscape of European football, speculation about managerial appointments never seems to go away. The latest buzz revolves around José Mourinho and whether the Portuguese tactician could one day return to the dugout at Real Madrid.

Surprisingly, former Real Madrid star Luis Figo has weighed in, refusing to completely rule out the possibility of Mourinho making a second stint at the Spanish club. Figo's cautious endorsement has reignited discussions about the special relationship between the coach and the club, despite past controversies.

Mourinho, currently at the helm of Benfica, has long been recognized for his tactical abilities and charismatic, sometimes polarizing, presence. The 62-year-old has enjoyed success across Europe, winning league titles in Portugal, England, Italy, and Spain, as well as the coveted UEFA Champions League with Porto and Inter Milan.

His tenure at Benfica has reminded the football world that Mourinho still possesses the strategic sharpness that made him a toplevel manager. Over the years, media outlets have linked him with high-profile positions, including the potential to succeed Roberto Martínez as manager of the Portugal national team after the World Cup.

Although Real Madrid has publicly distanced itself from the idea of rehiring Mourinho, with club leadership reportedly focused on other managerial directions, voices like Figo's keep the conversation alive. Mourinho's first tenure at Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013 remains a prominent chapter in the club's history.

He secured a La Liga title, broke Barcelona's dominance, and delivered memorable victories, even as his fiery personality created occasional friction in the dressing room.

Figo weighs in: destiny could decide Mourinho's Real Madrid fate

Speaking about his long-standing relationship with Mourinho, Figo reflected on their shared chapters - from Sporting CP, where Mourinho served as Sir Bobby Robson's translator, to Barcelona, assisting both Robson and Louis van Gaal, and finally at Inter Milan during the latter years of Figo's playing career.

"That's a lot of time with José, and I think it's logical that one day he's destined to have the opportunity to coach the Portuguese national team," Figo commented, emphasizing the coach's enduring relevance.

Regarding a possible return to Real Madrid, Figo took a measured stance. He suggested that such a reunion would be determined by "fate" and added that if their paths were to cross again, it would be interesting to see how circumstances unfolded. His remarks neither confirmed nor dismissed the possibility.

While the current reality suggests that a return to the Bernabéu is not imminent for Mourinho, the football world knows better than to rule him out completely.

Whether destiny will bring Mourinho back to Spanish football's grandest stage remains uncertain, but for now, the debate continues.