Portuguese football is abuzz with anticipation as legendary manager José Mourinho looks set to make a dramatic return to Benfica, following the dismissal of under-fire coach Bruno Lage.
Benfica’s board took the decision to part ways with Lage after Tuesday’s shock Qarabağ FK upset in the UEFA Champions League, where the Lisbon giants surrendered a two-goal lead to lose at home. The loss plunged the club into turmoil and left their European hopes hanging by a thread.
According to multiple Portuguese media outlets, Benfica president Rui Costa has already reached an agreement in principle with Mourinho, with only minor contractual details left to finalise. The club hopes to unveil him before the weekend, in time for Saturday’s crucial league clash against Desportivo das Aves.
Costa confirmed the urgency of the search, saying:
“We expect to have the new coach on the bench at Vila das Aves next Saturday. The decision must be swift and decisive.”
Mourinho, 62, began his managerial career at Benfica in 2000, where he lasted just 11 matches before departing. He then went on to enjoy glittering spells at FC Porto, Chelsea FC, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, AS Roma, and most recently Fenerbahçe SK.
If confirmed, the move would mark a symbolic homecoming for one of Portugal’s most decorated and charismatic coaches — and a bold attempt by Benfica to revive their domestic and European ambitions after a stuttering start to the season.
