Jose Mourinho has finally spoken after being officially unveiled as Benfica’s new head coach, marking a dramatic return to Portuguese football.
The 62-year-old on Thursday, September 18, 2025, signed a two-year contract. Both Mourinho and Benfica have the option to cancel the contract within ten days of the conclusion of the 2025/26 campaign.
The announcement ends days of speculation following his departure from Fenerbahce, where he was sacked after a shock Champions League qualifying defeat, ironically at the hands of Benfica.
Breaking his silence on the move, Mourinho admitted he sees this as a return to his true level.
“Coaching Benfica is returning to my level, and my level is coaching the biggest clubs in the world. I made a mistake going to Fenerbahce. I gave my all until the last day, obviously,” he said.
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True to his fiery nature, Mourinho also set the tone for what he expects from his new squad.
“I’m hungrier than I was 25 years ago. Benfica has to bite hard. In recent games, they haven’t bitten much, in my opinion,” he added.
The “Special One” first coached Benfica briefly in 2000 before launching a glittering career across Europe, winning league titles in Portugal, England, Italy, and Spain, as well as two Champions League crowns.
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