Jose Mourinho return confirmed just days after Ruben Amorim comments on job

Jose Mourinho has been out of work for less than a month after being sacked by Fenerbahce, with his return to Benfica now official.

View Image

(Image: SOPA Images, SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho has been appointed as Benfica’s new manager, with his latest sabbatical from football lasting fewer than four weeks. The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid chief was dismissed by Fenerbahce at the end of August following just over 12 months at the helm.

His rapid departure came 48 hours after the Turkish outfit were knocked out of the Champions League play-offs by his new employers Benfica.

‘The Special One’ commenced his managerial journey with Benfica in 2000 but endured less than a full campaign after clashing with the club’s president.

Now aged 62, Mourinho makes his return to Benfica and is anticipated to oversee his inaugural training session on Thursday.

Speaking prior to his appointment being formally confirmed, Mourinho disclosed he had no reservations about returning to his previous club.

He said: “What I can confirm is that, before I caught the plane, Benfica asked me if I was interested in coaching them.

“I said yes. I said I was abroad and that when I returned to Portugal I would have all the interest in talking with them. My nature is wanting to coach. I told myself that I wanted to balance myself emotionally.

“I didn’t want to say yes to the wrong club, just because I am a workaholic. When asked if I wanted to coach Benfica, I did not think twice. It interests me.”

Ruben Amorim, the current Manchester United manager, has also been mentioned as a potential successor following Lage’s dismissal, with his future at Old Trafford looking uncertain. The ex-Sporting boss has had a challenging first year in England, managing to secure only one victory from United’s initial four Premier League matches.

Despite this, the United board maintains their support for the manager, with another review scheduled after three more games, during the upcoming international break.

In light of the ongoing speculation, Norohna Lopes, who is vying for the Benfica presidency, was questioned about the likelihood of securing the Red Devils’ boss.

He responded: “Ruben Amorim? He’s a great coach, he has a contract with Manchester United. I won’t comment on that. Of course I like him. He’s a great coach and a Benfica fan. I don’t have a contract for Ruben to sign.”

The return of Mourinho to Benfica also puts an end to rumours of a comeback to the English top tier. He has already had two stints with Chelsea, clinching the Premier League title thrice, in addition to managing Manchester United and Tottenham.

Previously, he hinted at being open to leading a club not participating in European competition, following several disputes with UEFA.