- A legendary manager has returned to the club where it all began, but questions over how long he will remain in charge now emerge
- There is an intense presidential race, where political battles may ultimately determine who truly shapes Benfica’s future
- One ambitious candidate has set his sights on a world-class replacement, a move that could dramatically alter the club’s direction
José Mourinho has officially been unveiled as Benfica’s new head coach, yet his long-term future at the Estádio da Luz is already being questioned.
The Portuguese tactician, who signed a contract running until 2027 after replacing Bruno Lage, may not remain in charge as long as expected.
Source: Getty Images
Less than a month after being dismissed by Fenerbahçe, ironically following a Champions League playoff defeat to Benfica, the former Chelsea, Manchester United, and Tottenham manager is back in the dugout where his career first began in 2000.
While his agreement allows both parties to reconsider their commitment just ten days after the 2025/26 season ends, that clause has taken on added significance ahead of Benfica’s upcoming presidential elections on October 25.
Rui Costa defends decision to hire Mourinho
Current president Rui Costa, however, insists that Mourinho’s appointment was not influenced by political maneuvering. Speaking to reporters, Costa stressed that his priority remains the team’s performance.
“I haven’t campaigned at all because my responsibility is to ensure Benfica’s success this season,” he explained.
“This decision is about protecting our sporting goals, not about personal interests or elections.”
Klopp could replace Mourinho at Benfica
Menawhile, the election battle has sparked talk of alternative coaching options. Leading candidate João Noronha Lopes is reportedly keen on Manchester United boss Rúben Amorim, having attended the Manchester derby in person.
Source: Getty Images
But another contender, lawyer Wristovao Carvalho, has set his sights even higher, with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp.
Carvalho revealed in an interview with Desporto ao Minuto that he has already made initial contact with Klopp and believes the German would be open to a move to potentially replace Jose Mourinho.
“The door is ajar. If I win, one of my first actions will be to sit with Klopp and present him with a long-term project. I’m convinced I can persuade him to coach Benfica and lead us to Champions League glory.”
Calling Klopp “the right coach for my project,” Carvalho stressed that the German’s motivational qualities, global recognition, and ability to build sustainable teams make him his ideal choice.
He even promised unwavering support through difficult periods, saying:
“We have a project that will endure.”
With presidential candidates already considering alternatives, Mourinho’s Benfica managerial future could quickly come under pressure, with the eelctions scheduled for October 2025, according to ESPN.
Meanwhile, despite the early uncertainty surrounding José Mourinho’s long-term future at Benfica, many fans flocked to social media to celebrate his arrival, sharing some uplifting reactions highlighted below.
@MikeAmoah commented:
“The Special One is back — this feels like destiny.”
@MiuelAmo said:
“Experience, passion, trophies… exactly what Benfica needs now.”
@SamuelApoiu reacted:
“Mourinho + Benfica = Champions League dreams alive again!”
Fenerbahce parts ways with Mourinho
As earlier reported by YEN.com.gh, José Mourinho was dismissed by Fenerbahce on August 29, 2025.
His departure came just 24 hours after the Turkish club’s disappointing exit from the Champions League qualifying rounds
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
