Mourinho thanks Real fans

Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho has sent out a message of thanks to the club and their fans ahead of his final game in charge on Saturday.

The Portuguese trainer and Spanish giants reached a decision to tear up his contract at the end of the season, meaning he is free to return to Chelsea in the off-season.

Mourinho will take charge of his last game as Real coach against Osasuna on Saturday and wished everyone at the club all the best going forward.

“I wish everyone associated with Real Madrid much happiness in the future,” he said in a statement on the club’s website.

“I appreciate the support of lots of fans and respect the criticism of others. Once again, a lot of happiness to everyone and, above all, good health. Hala Madrid!”

Bayern Munich coach Jupp Heynckes and Carlo Ancelotti are favourites to replace Mourinho.

Heynckes is being replaced by Pep Guardiola in the off-season despite having won the Champions League this season while Real have enquired to Paris Saint-Germain about Ancelotti.