Mourinho Returns to Benfica as Head Coach Ahead of Chelsea Clash
SME News UK. Benfica have confirmed the appointment of José Mourinho as their new head coach, marking a dramatic return to the club 25 years after his brief first spell in charge.Mourinho succeeds Bruno Lage, who was dismissed earlier this week following a string of disappointing results. The timing of the appointment is particularly significant, as Benfica prepare for a high-profile UEFA Champions League tie against Chelsea — the club where Mourinho forged his reputation as “The Special One” two decades ago.The 61-year-old Portuguese manager has been out of work since parting ways with Turkish side Fenerbahçe earlier this month. While he had been strongly linked with a Premier League comeback, Benfica moved swiftly to secure his services.For Mourinho, this represents both a homecoming and an opportunity to reignite his managerial career. He first took charge of Benfica in September 2000, though his stay lasted just a few months before embarking on a journey that would bring him Champions League glory with Porto and legendary spells across Europe’s elite clubs.In a statement, Benfica described Mourinho’s arrival as a “bold step towards restoring the club’s European ambitions,” while fans will undoubtedly relish the prospect of their team being led by one of football’s most decorated and charismatic figures.Mourinho’s immediate challenge will be galvanizing the squad ahead of the Champions League showdown with Chelsea — a match that could not be more symbolic for both coach and club.
