Football fans might be in for a treat as Jose Mourinho, one of the game’s most celebrated managers, looks set for a sensational return to Benfica—25 years after he first walked away from the Portuguese club.
The timing couldn’t be more intriguing, with a Champions League clash against Chelsea just two weeks away.
Why Mourinho Is Back on the Market
At 62, Mourinho is currently a free agent following his dismissal from Fenerbahce.
The Turkish side’s failure to reach the Champions League proved costly, ending Mourinho’s stint there.
His availability has sparked intense speculation across Europe, with fans and pundits eagerly guessing his next destination.
Benfica Moves Quickly to Reconnect
According to A Bola, Benfica is making strong headway in negotiations with Mourinho.
The club gave him his very first managerial role back in 2000, where he oversaw 11 matches before taking on a full-time position at Uniao de Leiria.
Mourinho then went on to achieve huge success at Porto, before becoming a household name internationally with Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Inter Milan.
If the deal is finalized, Mourinho will face a dramatic twist: a Champions League clash against his old club Chelsea in just two weeks—a storyline football fans will relish.
Benfica’s Coaching Shake-Up
The Portuguese giants parted ways with former Wolves manager Bruno Lage after a slow start to the season.
Club president Rui Costa emphasized the need for a change to restore winning momentum:
“We have reached an agreement with Bruno Lage to step down as Benfica’s coach.
I thank him for everything he’s done for our club, but we believe it’s time for a change.
Regarding the next coach, we expect to have the new one on the bench at Vila das Aves next Saturday.
The Benfica coach must be a winner.He must be a coach who represents a club of this size and has the ability to bring this team to the required levels.”
Costa confirmed no coach has officially been hired yet, leaving the door wide open for Mourinho to return and make an immediate impact.
What’s Next for Benfica
Benfica fans will be watching closely as negotiations continue, hoping that Mourinho’s return could spark a revival in both domestic and European competitions.
With the Champions League looming and the club seeking immediate success, the next few days could mark the start of an extraordinary chapter for the Portuguese powerhouse.