Tag: Benfica

Mourinho shields teen after costly error vs Leverkusen

José Mourinho / Samuel Dahl (Benfica)
November 2025

After a Dahl mistake led to Patrik Schick’s winner in Benfica’s 1-0 loss, Mourinho substituted the left-back but publicly defended him, confirming Dahl will start versus Casa Pia. He framed the goal as a collective failure amid profligate finishing. Mourinho highlighted Dahl’s first-half quality—depth runs and improved decision-making—while lamenting missed chances and over-elaboration in the box. With Benfica winless in Europe under him but unbeaten domestically, he’s protecting a young contributor to stabilize confidence and selection continuity.

Mourinho’s “sunrise to sunset” grind at Benfica Campus

José Mourinho (Benfica)
November 2025

Benfica highlighted José Mourinho’s extreme work routine: long days at Seixal, frequent attendance at academy sessions, and occasional overnights on campus. The objective is total alignment—from youth to first team—as Benfica pursue domestic dominance and deeper European runs under an all-in manager. Mourinho embeds across departments, dining with academy groups, observing training, and reinforcing shared standards. The approach shortens feedback loops, accelerates promotion pathways, and tightens tactical cohesion. It also signals cultural continuity: professionalism, humility, and club-first behaviours expected from prospects to senior pros.

Mourinho needles St James’ Park atmosphere after 3–0 loss

José Mourinho (Benfica)
October 2025

After Newcastle beat Benfica 3–0, Mourinho delivered a veiled dig at the St James’ Park atmosphere. On-field, Anthony Gordon starred and Harvey Barnes struck twice, including finishing a Nick Pope long-throw routine. Newcastle mixed direct restarts with wing overloads, forcing Benfica’s block to collapse after the opener. Mourinho’s post-game barb contrasted with Howe’s clinical tweaks and home support that historically amplifies pressure in high-leverage European nights.

Barcelona Eye Benfica Starlet Gonçalo Oliveira

Gonçalo Oliveira (Benfica)
October 2025

Barcelona are considering a move for 19-year-old center-back Gonçalo Oliveira. Sporting director Deco has already met with Benfica representatives, seeing him as a potential long-term defensive asset despite the position not being a current top priority for the Catalans.
Oliveira is contracted at Benfica until 2027, meaning a deal would likely require a sizeable fee. Barça’s transfer strategy under Deco prioritizes high-potential talents, and the teenager fits that profile, making him a player the club may track closely heading into the next window.

Mourinho Thanks Chelsea Fans Despite Benfica Defeat

José Mourinho (Benfica)
October 2025

Mourinho was warmly welcomed back to Stamford Bridge as Chelsea fans serenaded him during their 1-0 Champions League win over Benfica. He expressed gratitude but admitted he thrives on victories, not memories, as Richard Ríos’ early own goal sealed his first Benfica defeat in Europe.
The Portuguese coach, who won eight trophies across two Chelsea spells, acknowledged the fans with gestures during the match but was visibly frustrated at full-time. Despite disappointment, he embraced Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca and reflected on the UK’s culture of honoring past achievements, saying he will “always be a Blue.”

Bernardo Silva Drops Hint on Manchester City Exit

Bernardo Silva (Manchester City)
October 2025

Bernardo Silva revealed he has already made a decision about his future, fueling speculation of an Etihad exit. The club captain, in his final contract year, has been linked with Benfica and Saudi clubs while remaining focused on City’s campaign.
While refusing to elaborate, Silva stressed his commitment to City’s season, highlighting his new leadership role that emphasizes discipline and standards. Vincent Kompany’s old prediction of his captaincy has come full circle, adding weight to speculation around his next move.

Mourinho Insists No Sentiment Ahead of Chelsea Clash

Jose Mourinho (Benfica)
September 2025

Jose Mourinho vowed not to be sentimental on his return to Stamford Bridge as Benfica prepare to face Chelsea. Despite acknowledging Chelsea as “home”, Mourinho stressed he is now “Red” and fully focused on helping Benfica secure Champions League points. Mourinho reflected on past triumphs at Chelsea but said focus must remain on winning tough fixtures against Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Newcastle. He warned Benfica must defend resolutely and adapt tactically to chase victories in a difficult Champions League group.

Mourinho Praises Neto Before Chelsea Return

Jose Mourinho (Benfica)
September 2025

Jose Mourinho hailed Chelsea winger Pedro Neto as “one of the best in the world” ahead of Benfica’s clash at Stamford Bridge. The Special One admitted he’d “love” to sign Neto, while the Portuguese forward praised Mourinho as one of football’s greatest managers. Mourinho returns to his old club, where he won eight major trophies, but insists he won’t let sentiment affect him. He labelled Enzo Maresca fortunate to have talents like Neto, while Neto reciprocated respect, calling it a privilege to potentially work under Mourinho.

Lage Reveals Benfica’s Failed Joao Felix Return

Bruno Lage
September 2025

Bruno Lage disclosed Benfica’s failed attempt to re-sign Joao Felix, revealing Chelsea refused to budge on their €30m valuation despite Felix’s desire to return. Benfica proposed a shared ownership deal but negotiations collapsed, forcing Felix to join Al-Nassr for €50m instead. Lage explained Felix even agreed to lower wages and personally expressed his wish to rejoin, but Chelsea remained firm on financial demands. Despite agent Jorge Mendes’ involvement, Benfica were priced out. Felix ultimately chose Saudi Arabia, leaving Benfica frustrated and Lage soon sacked.

Benfica Back Mourinho in Referee Row

Jose Mourinho (Benfica)
September 2025

Benfica released a statement accusing referees of double standards after two controversial calls in three days. They argued Antonio Silva was fouled before Gil Vicente’s goal, while a similar incident wrongly saw their own strike disallowed against Rio Ave earlier. The club demanded accountability from the Refereeing Council, calling recent officiating “systematically detrimental.” Their public defence of Mourinho, already under investigation for comments on referee Sergio Guelho, signals unified support as the Portuguese coach continues fighting perceived bias against Benfica.

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