"Mourinho Set for Former Club Return After 25 Years, Faces Chelsea Post-Fenerbahce Exit"
Jose Mourinho Nears Emotional Benfica Return 25 Years Later – Could Face Chelsea in Champions League
By Ollie Lewis, Deputy Sports Editor | Updated: 09:46 BST, 17 September 2025
Jose Mourinho is reportedly on the verge of a sensational return to Benfica, 25 years after his brief first stint as manager. The 62-year-old, currently a free agent after being sacked by Fenerbahce last month, is in advanced talks with the Portuguese giants and could finalize a deal by Wednesday evening.
Mourinho began his managerial career at Benfica in 2000 but resigned after just 11 games following a boardroom shakeup. Despite the short tenure, he rebuilt his reputation at Uniao de Leiria before achieving global fame with trophy-laden spells at Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.
Mourinho’s first Benfica tenure in 2000 lasted just 11 games.
Chelsea Clash Looms
Should Mourinho take charge, he’d face former club Chelsea in the Champions League on October 1. Benfica, currently managed by interim coach Nelson Veríssimo, dismissed Bruno Lage after a sluggish start to the season. The Eagles sit third in Liga Portugal and crashed out of Champions League qualifying after a shock loss to Qarabag.
Mourinho could face Chelsea just weeks into his potential Benfica reign.
Club President Demands a ‘Winner’
Benfica president Rui Costa confirmed Lage’s exit, stating: “We agreed Bruno should step down. The new coach must be a winner who represents a club of this stature.” While Costa refused to name Mourinho directly, Portuguese outlet A Bola claims negotiations are progressing swiftly.
Why Benfica Needs Mourinho
Benfica’s early-season struggles, including a 2-1 league defeat to Santa Clara, have alarmed fans. Mourinho’s tactical nous and pedigree could stabilize the club ahead of critical matches, including their Champions League group-stage opener against Chelsea.
Mourinho’s Rocky Recent History
The “Special One” has faced turbulence since leaving Manchester United in 2018. Mixed spells at Tottenham and Roma preceded his abrupt Fenerbahce departure after failing to secure Champions League qualification. A Benfica reunion offers redemption – and a chance to reignite his storied rivalry with Chelsea.
Stay tuned for updates as Mourinho’s potential homecoming unfolds.
