Tag: Benfica

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.

Chelsea Reject ‘Judas’ Mourinho Homecoming

Jose Mourinho (Benfica)
September 2025

Jose Mourinho reportedly hoped to attend Chelsea games this season before joining Benfica, but the Blues will not offer tributes when his new side face them in the Champions League. Mourinho remains divisive, despite delivering three league titles to the club. Chelsea fans once labelled him “Judas” during his Manchester United stint, to which Mourinho replied by flaunting his title wins. With no red-carpet return expected, Stamford Bridge prepares for another tense reunion with their ex-manager.

Mourinho Eyes Benzema Reunion at Benfica

Jose Mourinho (Benfica)
September 2025

Benfica may pursue Karim Benzema as Jose Mourinho seeks to reunite with his former Real Madrid striker. The 37-year-old could leave Al-Ittihad before his contract expires next summer if Benfica pay a small transfer fee. Al-Ittihad are reportedly open to letting Benzema go for €7m, but a move would require him to accept a massive wage cut from his current £83m-per-year salary. Benzema has praised Mourinho before, raising hopes of a sensational reunion.

Alonso Praises Impressive Madrid Newcomer Alvaro Carreras

Alvaro Carreras (Real Madrid)
September 2025

Real Madrid boss Xabi Alonso hailed summer signing Alvaro Carreras as a “very complete” left-back after his excellent start since joining from Benfica. The 22-year-old has started all six matches this season without being substituted, impressing both defensively and in attack. Signed for €50m, Carreras’ composure and overlapping runs have boosted Madrid’s backline. Alonso praised his personality, tactical awareness, and technical quality, noting his impact exceeded expectations despite competition from Fran Garcia and Ferland Mendy for the starting spot.

Amorim Pays Tribute to Mourinho, Reaffirms United Loyalty

Ruben Amorim (Manchester United)
September 2025

Ruben Amorim praised Jose Mourinho after his appointment as Benfica boss, calling him “the best Portuguese manager.” Amorim credited Mourinho for opening doors for Portuguese coaches but underlined Manchester United remains his only club amid speculation. Despite United’s mixed start, Amorim eased pressure with a 2-1 win over Chelsea, thanks to Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro. He admitted Mourinho remains an inspiration but insisted his own focus is firmly on United’s project, brushing aside any talk of distraction or divided loyalty.

Mourinho Admits Portugal Job Was Expected Before Benfica Return

José Mourinho (Benfica)
September 2025

José Mourinho revealed he had always envisioned returning to Portugal to manage the national team rather than Benfica, but embraced the chance to take over his former club, leading them to victory in his league comeback. The 62-year-old, who started his career at Benfica in 2000, said the role felt a “natural consequence” of his career. Despite past friction with the club, Mourinho welcomed the chance to manage another “giant” and restart on familiar ground.

Mourinho Returns as Benfica Boss Ahead of English Reunions

Jose Mourinho
September 2025

Jose Mourinho is set to be appointed Benfica head coach on a two-year deal, returning to where his managerial journey began. His new adventure kicks off with high-profile Champions League trips to Chelsea and Newcastle, sparking early reunions with old Premier League stomping grounds. The 62-year-old replaces Bruno Lage and immediately faces familiar faces. Stamford Bridge and St James’ Park will reignite memories of his Chelsea and Manchester United reigns, while later clashes with Real Madrid add more intrigue. Benfica gain both a sporting challenge and a globally magnetic storyline.

Benfica candidate eyes Amorim “one day,” denies meeting

João Noronha Lopes
September 2025

Benfica presidential frontrunner João Noronha Lopes said he didn’t meet Man United coach Rúben Amorim in Manchester, but declared Amorim would coach Benfica “one day.” He attended the derby with aides while preparing plans for the club’s future. It’s a political nod without tapping up, respect current contracts while signaling ambition. If Lopes wins, expect strategic courting later, contingent on Amorim’s United trajectory. For now, Benfica stays publicly proper; privately, succession lists are curated.

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