José Mourinho Expresses Desire in Sport Lisboa e Benfica Head Coach Role
José Mourinho has expressed keen in taking over as the new head coach of SL Benfica, after the exit of Bruno Lage.
Background of the Scenario
Lage was dismissed after Benfica suffered a surprising 3-2 loss to Qarabag in the Champions League.
Club president Rui Costa mentioned that the organization intends to appoint a new coach by the weekend, though he refused to comment on specific candidates.
Reports indicate that the Portuguese manager is willing to a comeback to Portuguese soccer, more than two decades after he left for Chelsea FC.
The Special One's History with Benfica
Mourinho began his coaching journey with SL Benfica in 2000, though his tenure was short-lived, lasting only 10 games.
He later achieved prominence with FC Porto, guiding them to six titles, such as the Champions League in 2004.
From that point, he has managed top clubs across Europe, such as Chelsea, Inter, Real, Manchester United, Spurs, Roma, and Fenerbahçe.
Possible Challenges and Fixtures
Should appointed, Mourinho would confront his former club Chelsea FC in the Champions League on 30 September.
Benfica is also scheduled to meet Newcastle United and Real in the group stage.
At present, the club ranks sixth in the Liga Portugal, five points behind leaders FC Porto.
Election Context
The move to change Lage aligns with forthcoming presidential elections on October 25.
Joao Noronha Lopes, the favorite, has allegedly shown interest in Ruben Amorim of Man United.
Costa emphasized that the decision was taken exclusively for football reasons and not for election gains.
"I'm not here to save any roles," Costa stated. "My goal is to secure the best future for Benfica."
