A comeback full of symbolism

José Mourinho never leaves anyone indifferent. Just weeks after ending his spell at Fenerbahçe, the Portuguese coach is back where it all began: Benfica. The dismissal of Bruno Lage, following the Eagles’ painful Champions League defeat to Qarabag, opened the door for The Special One to return to the Estádio da Luz.

The story has a curious, even controversial twist: it was Benfica who eliminated Fenerbahçe from the Champions League shortly before Mourinho’s arrival. In Turkey, many view it as a hidden betrayal, while in Portugal, it feels like a circle being closed.

Closing the circle in Lisbon

Mourinho had already experienced a brief spell at Benfica back in 2000. It lasted just nine games, but it was the first step in a career that would take him to the very top of European football. From there, he moved to Porto, where he became a legend by winning two league titles, a UEFA Cup and the Champions League that changed his life.

That meteoric rise catapulted him to Chelsea, Inter, Real Madrid and Manchester United. Titles, controversies and unforgettable quotes made him an unrepeatable figure. In recent years, however, his trophy cabinet lost its shine: the Conference League with Roma and barren spells at Tottenham and Fenerbahçe were a far cry from the dominant Mourinho of another era.

Between betrayal and excitement

Returning to Benfica means more than coming home — it also means taking charge of Porto’s eternal rival, the very club that made him a legend. It’s reminiscent of what he experienced in Spain when he joined Real Madrid, knowing he would divide passions and fire up opposing fans.

In Lisbon, Mourinho is chasing what he has sought in recent years: a return to the elite, the joy of football, and another chapter of glory. This is his home, this is Portugal, and this is the Champions League — the stage where he has always felt most alive. And while some may call it betrayal, he sees it as another chance to be happy.