Jose Mourinho is reportedly on the brink of a sensational return to Benfica, with the club expected to confirm him as their new head coach before the weekend.
The move comes just days after Benfica’s shock Champions League elimination at the hands of Qarabag, which led to the swift dismissal of Bruno Lage.
According to reports from Portugal, a deal with Mourinho has already been agreed, with only minor contractual details left to finalise.
If confirmed, this appointment would see Mourinho, 62, return to the club where his managerial journey first began in 2000.
Back then, he managed only 11 matches before leaving, but he later built a glittering career with stints at Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma, and most recently, Fenerbahce.
Benfica president Rui Costa underlined the urgency behind the decision, saying:
“Regarding the next coach, we expect to have the new one on the bench at Vila das Aves next Saturday.”
This statement adds weight to the speculation that Mourinho’s arrival is imminent.
Following their European collapse, Benfica initially considered other options, including Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim.
However, Portuguese outlets report that Mourinho’s vast experience and record of success made him the standout choice.
Lage’s dismissal came after he squandered a two-goal lead against Qarabag, a result described by many fans as one of Benfica’s most humiliating defeats in recent years.
The club’s hierarchy, eager to steady the ship, turned to one of Portugal’s most decorated managers.
Mourinho remains a figure of global intrigue.
His achievements include winning the UEFA Cup and Champions League with Porto, three Premier League titles with Chelsea, a treble with Inter Milan, and major trophies with Real Madrid and Manchester United.
Returning to Lisbon, he now faces the challenge of restoring Benfica’s reputation in Europe while also reclaiming domestic dominance.
If the deal is confirmed before Saturday, as expected, Mourinho’s first test could come immediately, setting the stage for one of the most intriguing football storylines of the year.
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