Mourinho Returns to Benfica as Manager on Deal Until 2027

Jose Mourinho is back at the club where it all began. Benfica have confirmed the appointment of the 62-year-old as their new head coach, signing a contract that runs until the summer of 2027. He replaces Bruno Lage, who was dismissed in the wake of Tuesday’s stunning Champions League defeat against Qarabag.

For Mourinho, this marks an emotional return. His first spell in charge of Benfica in 2000 lasted just 10 matches before a dispute with the club’s hierarchy led to his departure. A quarter of a century later, he returns to the Estádio da Luz as one of the most decorated managers of his generation, having won league titles in Portugal, England, Italy, and Spain, alongside two Champions League trophies.

The timing is striking. Mourinho was relieved of his duties at Fenerbahce less than a month ago following a play-off loss to none other than Benfica, the club he now leads. His arrival comes as the Lisbon giants sit sixth in the Primeira Liga table, five points behind rivals Porto but with a game in hand.

Lage’s dismissal raised eyebrows, given that he had lost just once across all competitions this season. But the board has turned to Mourinho’s experience and aura in the hope of restoring domestic dominance and rekindling European ambitions.

Mourinho’s first game back at the helm is scheduled for Saturday at 18:00 BST, when Benfica travel to face AVS, who sit 17th in the standings. The Portuguese coach will be expected to make an immediate impact as Benfica seek to close the gap at the top.

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