Fakayejo Paul
LISBON, Portugal – In a move that has sent shockwaves through the football world, José Mourinho is set for a sensational return to Benfica, the club where he began his managerial career.
A verbal agreement has been reached for a two-year contract that will keep him at the helm until June 2027.
The deal, which was reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano with his signature “here we go,” comes swiftly after Benfica’s recent Champions League defeat and the subsequent sacking of former manager Bruno Lage.
The club’s president, Rui Costa, has turned to the “Special One” to steady the ship and restore a winning mentality.
Mourinho, who was recently dismissed by Fenerbahçe after a brief and tumultuous spell, has accepted the offer, and the final details and official signing are expected to be completed within the next 24 hours.
The two-year contract will see the 62-year-old manager return to the Estádio da Luz almost exactly 25 years after he first took charge of the club in a brief, 11-game stint in 2000.
The move marks a return to his roots for the Portuguese tactician and a huge statement of intent from Benfica as they seek to recapture the Primeira Liga title and compete in European competitions.