Jose Mourinho in Talks to Return to Benfica
In a potential return to the sidelines, Jose Mourinho is reportedly in discussions to take over as head coach of Benfica following the dismissal of Bruno Lage. The Portuguese club made this decision after a disappointing Champions League loss, where they squandered a two-goal advantage to fall 3-2 against Qarabag on Tuesday night.
Mourinho’s Interest and History with Benfica
Sources speaking to ESPN have indicated that while Mourinho, who parted ways with Fenerbahce earlier in August, is interested in the Benfica role, no formal agreement has been reached as of yet. Notably, it has been over two decades since Mourinho’s last tenure in Portugal, which ended when he left FC Porto for Chelsea in 2004.
Starting his managerial journey at Benfica in 2000, Mourinho had a brief stint with the club, leaving after just 10 matches. His potential reappointment could coincide with important future fixtures, including a Champions League match against Chelsea on September 30, followed by a league clash against Porto on October 5. Additionally, in the Champions League, Mourinho would meet Real Madrid—a club he previously managed—when Benfica hosts them on January 28, 2026.
Benfica’s Search for a New Coach
As Benfica gears up to appoint a new leader ahead of their Primeira Liga match against AVS on Saturday, the club is also considering other candidates, such as Ruben Amorim from Manchester United, who has ties to Benfica as a former player.
Rui Costa, the president of Benfica, emphasized the profile of their future coach, stating, “The Benfica coach’s profile must be that of a winner. A coach representing a club of this size must have the ability to elevate this team to the levels we expect and secure the titles we seek.”
With Portugal’s league title last secured in the 2022-23 season, the pressure is on Benfica to swiftly resolve their managerial vacancy, especially with the upcoming presidential elections scheduled for October 25.
