Overview
- Benfica confirmed Mourinho’s return and a contract running until summer 2027, presenting the 62-year-old in Lisbon with the coach declaring he feels “hungrier” than before.
- Rui Costa announced the immediate parting with Bruno Lage after Benfica squandered a 2-0 lead and lost 2-3 to Qarabag in their Champions League opener.
- Reports in Portuguese and German media say the contract includes a clause allowing either party to end the deal ten days after the season; the club has not detailed terms publicly.
- Local outlets indicate Mourinho could be on the bench for Saturday’s league match at AVS, pending final preparations.
- Mourinho returns 25 years after a brief first stint at Benfica and arrives shortly after his exit from Fenerbahçe, who had been eliminated by Benfica in Champions League qualifying.