Lisbon, Portugal – José Mourinho has been appointed head coach of Benfica, returning to Portuguese football 25 years after his first spell with the Lisbon giants. The announcement came Thursday, less than three weeks after his dismissal from Fenerbahce.
The 62-year-old has signed a two-year contract, though the deal includes a clause allowing either party to opt out 10 days after the end of the 2025-26 season. Mourinho succeeds Bruno Lage, who was sacked earlier this week following a 3-2 home defeat to Qarabag in the Champions League.
Ironically, it was Benfica who contributed to Mourinho’s downfall in Turkey, eliminating Fenerbahce in the Champions League qualification playoffs last month.
Mourinho, who first managed Benfica briefly in 2000 before embarking on a decorated career, said he was “full of emotions” but determined to focus on the job.
“I want to thank you for your trust. I know the history and culture of this club, but I must block out the emotions and focus on my mission,” he said during his unveiling.
“I will live for Benfica. None of the clubs I have coached motivated me more than being here. Benfica’s DNA is winning, and I’m here to serve that purpose.”
Arriving at the club’s training ground in a black Ferrari, Mourinho declared himself hungrier than ever:
“Before, it was the beginning of my career. Now I’m at a point of great maturity. I feel more alive than ever and focused on bringing joy to Benfica fans.”
Mourinho’s glittering CV includes 26 major trophies across stints with Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Roma. He also managed Tottenham Hotspur before his recent spell at Fenerbahce.
Benfica currently sit sixth in the Primeira Liga, five points behind leaders Porto with a game in hand. Mourinho’s first match will be against AVS in the league on Saturday.
He faces a quick reunion with former clubs: a Champions League group-stage clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on September 30, a domestic showdown with Porto on October 5, and a meeting with Real Madrid on January 28, 2026.
The appointment comes at a pivotal time for Benfica, who last won the Primeira Liga in 2022-23 and will hold presidential elections on October 25.
