Jose Mourinho has arrived in Portugal to an extraordinary reception from Benfica fans as talks intensify over him becoming the club’s new manager. The Portuguese coach, who first began his managerial career with Benfica back in 2000, has confirmed that he is “interested” in the role and could be officially appointed within hours.
The 62-year-old is currently a free agent following his dismissal from Fenerbahce after the Turkish side failed to qualify for the Champions League. Mourinho’s availability has triggered speculation across Europe, but Benfica appear to have moved fastest, offering him a return to his homeland and to the club that gave him his very first job in management.
Jose Mourinho at a Glance
- Full Name: Jose Mario dos Santos Mourinho Felix
- Age: 62
- Nationality: Portuguese
- Current Status: Free agent after leaving Fenerbahce
- Previous Club: Fenerbahce (sacked after failing to qualify for the Champions League)
- First Benfica Spell: 2000 (managed 10 matches before resignation)
- Major Success: Champions League winner with Porto (2004) and Inter Milan (2010)
- Other Clubs Managed: Chelsea, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham, Roma
- Potential Next Club: Benfica (talks ongoing, appointment expected soon)
- Key Upcoming Fixture: Benfica vs Chelsea, Champions League group stage at Stamford Bridge
Jose Mourinho touched down in Lisbon on Wednesday evening, arriving from Barcelona, and was immediately mobbed by adoring Benfica supporters. Many draped scarves around him as he made his way through the airport. Speaking to local media upon arrival, Mourinho admitted that the chance to manage Benfica again was too big to ignore.
“Benfica officially asked me if I was interested. What coach says no to Benfica? Not me,” Mourinho said. “When I was presented with the opportunity to coach Benfica, I didn’t hesitate. I’m interested, I’d like it. If I return, it won’t be a celebration of my career, nor a homecoming — it will be because I believe I can help the team right now.”
From Short Spell to European Glory
Jose Mourinho’s first stint with Benfica was brief, lasting only 10 matches in 2000 before he resigned due to disagreements with the club’s hierarchy. Shortly after, he moved to Uniao de Leiria before achieving global fame at Porto. Between 2002 and 2004, Mourinho led Porto to six trophies, including the 2003-04 Champions League.
From there, Mourinho’s career exploded onto the international stage. He won league titles with Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid, while also managing Manchester United, Tottenham, Roma, and most recently, Fenerbahce. His reputation as one of the most successful managers of his generation remains intact, and his return to Benfica would be seen as a full-circle moment in his storied career.
The Portuguese giants recently parted ways with Bruno Lage following a poor start to the season, including a damaging Champions League home defeat to Qarabag. Club president Rui Costa confirmed that the decision was made in order to bring new energy to the team. “The Benfica coach must be a winner. He must represent the club at the highest level and bring the team to where it should be,” Rui Costa said.
The club wants Mourinho in place by Saturday’s league game against Vila das Aves, signaling urgency in finalizing the agreement. If completed, Mourinho would step straight into the dugout ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.
Collision Course with Chelsea
Should Jose Mourinho officially take charge of Benfica, one of his first major tests would be against a familiar opponent — Chelsea. Benfica are set to face Mourinho’s former club at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League group stage later this month. The match promises to be one of the most talked-about fixtures of the season, adding even more intrigue to Mourinho’s potential return.
Benfica also face tough group games against Newcastle United and Real Madrid, meaning Mourinho would immediately be tested against elite European opposition.
Despite being out of work for less than a month, Jose Mourinho stressed that he wanted the right challenge rather than rushing into a job for the sake of it. “I didn’t want to say yes to just any club. But when it was Benfica, I didn’t think twice,” Mourinho explained. His words underline his determination to prove he can still succeed at the highest level and perhaps add another chapter to his already historic career.
FAQs
Why is Jose Mourinho linked with Benfica now?
Jose Mourinho is a free agent after being dismissed by Fenerbahce. Benfica sacked Bruno Lage and are seeking an experienced coach to lead them, making Mourinho the leading candidate.
Has Jose Mourinho managed Benfica before?
Yes, Mourinho’s first managerial job was at Benfica in 2000. However, he resigned after just 10 matches due to disagreements with the club’s leadership.
What did Mourinho say about the Benfica job?
Mourinho said he was immediately interested when Benfica contacted him, declaring: “What coach says no to Benfica? Not me.” He added that he believes he can help the team succeed right away.
Who will Jose Mourinho replace at Benfica?
Mourinho is set to replace Bruno Lage, who was dismissed after a poor start to the season, including a Champions League defeat to Qarabag.