In the same location where it all began, can Jose Mourinho rectify Benfica Lisbon's issues?

In the wake of his termination from Fenerbahçe, the former Portuguese coach has now inked a deal with Benfica, his initial professional home as their top coach.

, and ASMedia

2025 September 25 . 1:16 PM

2 min read

Once again in their long-standing home ground, Jose Mourinho is tasked with mending Benfica... — Once again in their long-standing home ground, Jose Mourinho is tasked with mending Benfica Lisbon's struggles.

In the same location where it all began, can Jose Mourinho rectify Benfica Lisbon's issues?

José Mourinho, the celebrated football coach, has returned to Benfica, Portugal's most successful club, after a gap of 25 years. His appointment was announced on Thursday evening, following his arrival from Barcelona the previous day.

Mourinho's return to Benfica is not his first change of club since his initial stint with the team. However, it is a significant move for the club's president, João Noronha Lopes, who is facing a vote five weeks away. Lopes' decision to bring Mourinho on board is seen as a strong argument for his presidency.

Rui Costa, a close friend of Mourinho and Benfica's sporting director, expressed his delight at the coach's return, stating it as an honor and a privilege for Benfica to have Mourinho as their coach. Costa presented Mourinho with a club scarf upon his arrival, with Mourinho replying, "What coach says no to Benfica? Not me."

Mourinho's tenure at Benfica in the late 90s was brief, lasting only two and a half months due to electoral issues. However, his impact on the club was undeniable. His return is being compared to Arsène Wenger joining Paris Saint-Germain, another iconic return of a legendary coach to a prestigious club.

Benfica, under the leadership of Bruno Lage, has been struggling on the field. With Mourinho's arrival, they have a unifying coach who is widely regarded as the greatest national coach by many. Mourinho has won two European titles, one with Porto in 2004 and another with Inter Milan in 2010.

Mourinho arrived at the Seixal training center in a Ferrari on Thursday afternoon, marking his grand entrance. The red carpet rolled out for Mourinho by Benfica is seen as a gesture of welcome from the institution.

Despite his success, Mourinho has not won a national championship since his time at Real Madrid (2010-2013). His subsequent contracts with clubs have not been completed. While he no longer matches up to Pep Guardiola's title count, Mourinho's return to Benfica promises to bring a fresh perspective and renewed energy to the club.

Mourinho's contract with Benfica extends until 2027, and either party has a ten-day period at the end of the current season to terminate the agreement. As Benfica looks towards the future, the return of Mourinho offers a glimmer of hope for a successful season ahead.