Decisive statements put an end to speculation
Renowned Portuguese coach José Mourinho, the current manager of Benfica, has definitively closed the door on recent rumors linking him with a return to his former club, Real Madrid. In comments made ahead of the two teams' upcoming Champions League clash, Mourinho reaffirmed his commitment to his current contract, denying any negotiations or agreements to return to the Spanish capital.
When asked directly by journalists whether he could refuse a potential offer from Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, Mourinho replied unequivocally: “Yes, I could.” The coach, nicknamed “The Special One,” explained that he has great respect and a strong friendship with Pérez, but stressed that his professional commitment currently lies with Benfica, where his contract runs for another two years.
An unforgettable first spell in Madrid: between glory and controversy
These rumors come within a rich historical context linking Mourinho to Real Madrid. The Portuguese coach took charge of the Royal Club during a crucial period between 2010 and 2013, an era marked by fierce competition with Pep Guardiola's Barcelona. Mourinho succeeded in breaking the Catalan team's dominance, leading Real Madrid to a record-breaking 100 points in the 2011-2012 La Liga title. He also won the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup, and restored the club's prestige on the European stage by reaching the Champions League semi-finals for three consecutive years after a period of early exits. Despite these successes, his tenure was not without controversy, marked by internal and external tensions, and ultimately ending with his departure in 2013.
The importance of rumors and their potential impact
Mourinho's name always generates significant interest in the football world, and his renewed connection with Real Madrid carries particular weight. Domestically, his return would ignite the competition in La Liga and attract intense global media attention. Tactically, his return could represent a shift in the club's strategy towards a more pragmatic and defensively solid style of play, which some might consider necessary at certain stages. However, Mourinho clarified that the clause allowing him to leave Benfica was linked to the club's presidential elections and has since expired. He stated, "I gave everything to Real Madrid, the good and the bad. The relationship with the fans remains fantastic, but the only thing that exists now is my contract with Benfica; there is no agreement with Real Madrid.".
Full focus on the present
In closing, Mourinho shifted his focus entirely to the European clash, praising Real Madrid's current strength. He said, "I expect a completely different match from the one my team dominated in Lisbon. The Real Madrid I anticipate is the favorite to win the Champions League." He also expressed his best wishes to his former player, Álvaro Arbeloa, emphasizing his strong character, which qualifies him to coach a club of Real Madrid's stature. With these statements, Mourinho sought to put an end to the speculation, confirming that his sole focus is on achieving success with his current team.
