Real Madrid announced on Thursday the appointment of Portuguese coach José Mourinho as the club’s new head coach on a three-year contract, marking a notable return to the Spanish giants he previously guided to a La Liga title.

In a statement, the club said Mourinho will officially begin his duties on July 13, coinciding with the start of preparations for the new season.

Real Madrid has not won a league title since its departure, raising expectations for the team’s upcoming campaign.