Jose Mourinho has expressed keen in taking over as the new manager of SL Benfica, following the departure of Bruno Lage.
Context of the Situation
Lage was dismissed after Benfica suffered a surprising 3-2 defeat to Qarabag in the UEFA Champions League.
Club president Rui Costa stated that the organization aims to appoint a replacement manager by Saturday, though he declined to speculate on individual names.
Sources suggest that Mourinho is open to a comeback to Portuguese soccer, over 20 years after he departed for Chelsea.
The Special One's History with the Eagles
Mourinho started his managerial career with Benfica in the year 2000, though his stay was brief, lasting only ten games.
He later gained prominence with FC Porto, leading them to six trophies, including the Champions League in 2004.
From that point, he has coached elite clubs across Europe, such as Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Man Utd, Spurs, Roma, and Fenerbahçe.
Possible Challenges and Matches
Should appointed, he would face his former team Chelsea in the Champions League on September 30.
Benfica is also set to meet Newcastle and Real Madrid in the group phase.
At present, the club ranks 6th in the Primeira Liga, 5 points behind table-toppers FC Porto.
Election Background
This decision to replace the manager aligns with forthcoming club votes on October 25.
Joao Noronha Lopes, the favorite, has allegedly shown interest in Rúben Amorim of Man United.
Costa stressed that the choice was made exclusively for sporting reasons and not for political gains.
"I am not here to save any positions," Costa stated. "The aim is to secure the best future for Benfica."
