‘Next time’ – Everything Jose Mourinho said about Benfica as Tottenham manager
Former Tottenham manager Jose Mourinho is set to begin a new chapter at Benfica.
There were early suggestions that former Tottenham boss Mourinho could manage Rangers, with Russell Martin increasingly in hot water.
But it has now been widely reported that a return to Benfica is on the cards. It would be a full-circle moment for the Portuguese manager, having started his managerial career at the Primera Liga side.
Jose Mourinho sent his ‘respect’ to Benfica while at Tottenham
Tottenham started their UEFA Champions League campaign with a win over Villarreal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Benfica were not so impressive, losing 3-2 to Qarabag FK after leading by two 20 minutes into the first half. The defeat saw manager Bruno Lage sacked overnight, with Mourinho now in line to replace him.
It was suggested that Mourinho wanted to sign Rodrigo Bentancur from Tottenham while at Fenerbahce.
With Bentancur yet to extend his contract at Tottenham, there is a chance the 62-year-old circles back. Mourinho was active in the market while at Tottenham.
Carlos Vinicius was signed on loan from Benfica in 2020, while the Portuguese coach was at the helm. When asked about the possibility of his transfer, the former Spurs coach played his cards close to his chest.
In quotes provided by Alasdair Gold via X on 1 October 2020, he said: “I want you to ask me that question when it’s confirmed.
“Nobody told me it’s done so I’m going to respect the situation, respect the player, respect Benfica and wait a little bit more. Next time we see each other maybe I’m in conditions to answer.”
Mourinho has always had the utmost respect for his former side, and there is no doubt he’ll do well there in the near future.
What is Jose Mourinho’s record at Tottenham and Benfica
Mourinho’s time at Tottenham was a turbulent one, filled with ups and downs before he was eventually sacked in 2021 after a series of poor Premier League performances.
In comparison, his time at Benfica was brief but sweet, before he left the Portuguese club almost 25 years ago.
- Mourinho won 45 games, lost 24 and was defeated in 17 while at Tottenham
- The 62-year-old won five games, lost two and drew three while at Benfica
There is no doubt that Mourinho will want to revive Benfica’s Champions League charge if he lands in Portugal. Given his record in the competition, he is the best man to do it.
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