José Mourinho has made a stunning confession after being unveiled as Benfica’s new head coach, admitting his brief stint at Fenerbahce was “a mistake.”
The 62-year-old Portuguese coach was dismissed by the Turkish club last month following their Champions League exit.
His departure immediately triggered speculation about his next destination, and on Thursday, Benfica confirmed his return in a filing to the country’s Securities Market Commission.
Mourinho signed a deal that runs until the end of the 2026–27 season.
At his first press conference, Mourinho reflected candidly on the challenges of his last job.
“My career has been rich, I’ve coached in different countries. I made the wrong choice, but I have no regrets,” he said.
“I made a mistake going to Fenerbahce, but I gave everything until the last day. Coaching Benfica is returning to my level.”
This appointment marks a remarkable homecoming for Mourinho, who briefly managed Benfica in 2000 before departing after just 11 games.
Since then, he has built a glittering career across Europe, with silverware at Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Roma.
Now, more than two decades later, he returns to Lisbon with the task of reviving Benfica’s domestic and European ambitions.
Looking ahead, Mourinho struck a tone of conviction, insisting Benfica has the tools to reclaim its dominance.
“Promises are worth what they’re worth. At the time, at FC Porto, I promised and could have broken them,” he told reporters.
“I truly believe Benfica has everything it takes to win the championship. They’ve dropped points, and we may drop more, but we’re starting from scratch.”
The Portuguese tactician added: “Benfica has the potential in the dressing room to be champions.
It’s not a promise, but the conviction that we can and should make it happen. The context for me is coaching one of the biggest clubs in the world.”
Mourinho’s candid admission about his failed Turkish adventure has added intrigue to his comeback.
