José Mourinho is in advanced talks to return as Benfica manager, 25 years after his short first spell. Following Bruno Lage’s sacking, Benfica are turning to the “Special One” to steady the ship. Here’s what we know so far.

Mourinho’s Full Circle Moment

In one of football’s most intriguing storylines, José Mourinho is on the verge of returning to Benfica, the club where he first cut his managerial teeth back in 2000.

According to ESPN and Sky Sports, the Portuguese giants opened talks with Mourinho immediately after sacking Bruno Lage, who was dismissed following a shocking 3-2 Champions League defeat to Qarabag. Lage’s exit came after Benfica squandered a two-goal lead, leaving their European campaign hanging by a thread.

For Mourinho, now 62, this would be a symbolic full-circle comeback, more than two decades after he walked away from Benfica to pursue his career at Porto  a decision that changed football history.

What We Know So Far

Talks are advanced: Multiple outlets, including Reuters and Globo, confirm Mourinho is the leading candidate.

No official announcement yet: Benfica have not released a formal statement, and Mourinho has remained silent publicly.

Contract details unclear: Reports suggest a potential one-year deal with an option to extend, though nothing is signed.

Timing is urgent: If agreed, Mourinho could take charge as early as this weekend in Benfica’s Primeira Liga fixture.

Why Benfica Want Mourinho

• Crisis Management – Benfica’s collapse against Qarabag highlighted defensive fragility and a lack of tactical discipline. Mourinho’s hallmark is organizing struggling sides.
• European Battles Ahead – Benfica face Chelsea (Sept 30) and Real Madrid (Jan) in the Champions League. Mourinho’s history with both clubs adds extra spice.
• Political Pressure – With club president Rui Costa under scrutiny and elections looming, hiring a name like Mourinho is a statement move to appease fans and investors.

What This Means for Mourinho

For Mourinho, recently dismissed at Fenerbahçe, this job is a chance at redemption in his homeland. Returning to Benfica allows him to:

Restore his reputation in European competition.

Reconnect with his roots in Portuguese football.

Potentially build a squad capable of challenging rivals Porto and Sporting domestically.

What to Expect

If appointed, Mourinho is likely to:

Reinforce Benfica’s defensive structure.

Lean on experienced players for short-term results.

Emphasize pragmatism over flair to stabilize form.

But the burning question is: Can Mourinho still deliver in 2025?

Conclusion

The stage is set for a dramatic reunion: José Mourinho back at Benfica, 25 years later. While the deal isn’t officially sealed, the momentum behind it suggests an announcement is imminent.

For Benfica fans, this could be the dawn of a new chapter with the “Special One.” For Mourinho, it’s a chance to prove his fire still burns at the highest level.