José Mourinho is back where it all began. The Portuguese coach has returned to Benfica, 25 years after his first spell in charge, signing a two-year deal that signals one of the most dramatic homecomings in European football.
For Mourinho, this is more than a job. It is a return to the roots of a career that has spanned Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Roma, and Tottenham. He arrives in Lisbon only weeks after being dismissed by Fenerbahce, the result of a painful defeat to Benfica in Champions League qualification.
The 62-year-old replaces Bruno Lage, who was sacked after Benfica’s 3-2 home defeat to Qarabag in their opening group match. Benfica sit sixth in the Primeira Liga, five points off leaders Porto with a game in hand, and expectations are already immense.
Mourinho spoke with controlled emotion at his unveiling. “I want to thank you for your trust. I’m not here to celebrate my career. I will live for Benfica, for my mission. It’s a tremendous honor,” he said, his words echoing through a packed press room.
His Ferrari arrival at the training ground caused a stir among fans, many of whom remember his Porto days vividly. It was with Porto that Mourinho lifted the Champions League in 2004 before leaving for Chelsea, beginning his journey across Europe’s elite clubs. In total, he has amassed 26 major trophies across six countries.
The timing of his return adds intrigue. On September 30, Benfica travel to Stamford Bridge to face Chelsea, while October 5 brings a domestic showdown with Porto. In January, Mourinho will lock horns with another old flame, Real Madrid, in the Champions League.
Despite his legacy, he insists this chapter is different. “It’s two different phases. Before it was the beginning of my career, now I’m at a point of great maturity. I feel hungrier than I was 25 years ago,” Mourinho admitted.
The atmosphere in Lisbon is electric. Benfica fans see hope in a man who not only knows their football culture but has the pedigree to restore them to the top. With a league title last secured in 2023 and presidential elections looming in October, the stakes could not be higher.
