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Reported by Amos Dachung – Sele Media Africa Reporter
September 17, 2025
Mourinho Interested in Succeeding Lage at Benfica
Lisbon, Portugal — In a development that has stirred up the Portuguese football world, reports suggest that José Mourinho is interested in taking over as head coach of Benfica following the dismissal of Bruno Lage.[1]
What the Reports Say
• RTP, the Portuguese broadcaster, has reported that Benfica will appoint Mourinho as the new manager.[1]
• Sources close to Marcelo Romano indicate that Mourinho is among the top candidates in “advanced talks” with Benfica after Lage’s exit.[2]
• The catalyst for this move was Benfica’s recent Champions League shock loss to Qarabag, which saw them squandering a 2‑0 lead at home before conceding three goals. That result reportedly sealed Lage’s fate.[3]
Mourinho’s Status & Reaction
• Mourinho was recently sacked by Fenerbahce in late August 2025.[1]
• Some reports suggest Mourinho has “opened the door” to a return to Benfica, signaling his willingness to take on the role.[2]• However, this is still unconfirmed: while Benfica’s board appears keen on Mourinho, he has not publicly accepted the position yet, and there are counterreports that he has no immediate intention of returning to Portuguese club management.[4]
Implications for Benfica
• A return for Mourinho would represent a high‑profile hire: he has previous experience with Portuguese football and is seen as someone with the pedigree to manage both domestic and European challenges.[1]
• The timing suggests Benfica are seeking stability and a proven hand after Lage’s exit amid disappointing results.[3]
• Fans and analysts will likely watch developments closely, especially the upcoming Champions League fixtures and domestic matches, to see how quickly the club’s leadership finalizes their decision.
If you like, I can pull together a version with quotes or reactions from Benfica management or Mourinho for your article.
Citations:
1. Reuters: www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/soccer-benfica-hire-mourinho-new-manager-portuguese-tv-station-rtp-reports-2025-09-17/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2. The Peoples Person: thepeoplesperson.com/2025/09/17/jose-mourinho-in-advanced-talks-to-become-benfica-manager-fabrizio-romano-299037/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
3. Talksport: talksport.com/football/3561749/jose-mourinho-return-champions-league-benfica-sacked/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
4. beIN SPORTS: www.beinsports.com/en-us/soccer/articles/mourinho-shoots-down-benfica-rumors?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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