"I made a mistake by choosing Fenerbahce," Mourinho stated during his Benfica introductory press conference on 18/9. "I didn't fit the culture there, didn't fit the level of football there. But at Benfica, I'm back at the right level. And my level is to manage the biggest clubs in the world."
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Jose Mourinho during his Benfica introductory press conference in Lisbon, Portugal on 18/9/2025. Photo: AFP |
Jose Mourinho during his Benfica introductory press conference in Lisbon, Portugal on 18/9/2025. Photo: AFP
Benfica was the first professional club Mourinho managed in 2000, but he only stayed for three months due to internal conflicts. 25 years later, he returns to Da Luz with a contract until the summer of 2027, including a clause allowing either side to terminate early in 2026 if necessary.
At 62, after over two decades managing Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham, Roma, and Fenerbahce, Mourinho still exhibits intense passion. "My promise is clear. I will live for Benfica," the Portuguese manager added. "I left home and told my family, 'See you Sunday.' I'll only return after that match. No big club has ever made me feel the honor and responsibility like Benfica does today."
Mourinho declined to make promises about titles but affirmed the team's championship potential. "I don't make promises because promises only have value when they become reality," he added. "But I firmly believe Benfica has everything it takes to win the title. We've dropped two points, and we'll drop more, but we'll have to start over."
Some reporters wondered if Benfica would play too defensively under Mourinho, but he disagreed. "With the ball, all 11 players must attack," the two-time Champions League winner said. "Without the ball, all 11 must defend and hound the opponent. I think Benfica hasn't 'bitten' enough in recent matches. I want to change that."
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Mourinho instructs Benfica players during training on the afternoon of 18/9. Photo: SL Benfica |
Mourinho instructs Benfica players during training on the afternoon of 18/9. Photo: SL Benfica
President Rui Costa stated that this decision wasn't for the upcoming election but a choice for the club's future. "Mourinho is one of the most respected managers in the world. I chose him for Benfica, not for any campaign," the former Portuguese player said.
Benfica is one of Portugal's most storied clubs, with a record 38 Liga Portugal titles and two European Cups (now the Champions League). Mourinho's task will be to reclaim the Portuguese title from Sporting and make a deep run in the Champions League.
Mourinho will lead Benfica in his first match against AVS in Liga Portugal on Saturday evening, 20/9. His first Champions League match in years will be an away game against his former club, Chelsea, on the evening of 30/9.
Hoang An (according to A Bola)
