Mourinho Discusses Real Madrid President’s Message After Benfica Hire

Jose Mourinho has commented on Real Madrid President Florentino Perez's message following his appointment as head coach of Benfica. During a press conference after his official unveiling, Mourinho expressed his excitement about leading Benfica, describing it as an institution with a massive following and a significant challenge. This move marks his return to the Primeira Liga after a successful period with AS Roma in Italy, and it comes as Benfica aims to reclaim dominance after finishing third in the league last season.

Florentino Perez congratulated Mourinho on social media, praising him as a champion capable of building winning teams and noting that his experience will benefit Benfica. This endorsement reflects the mutual respect between the two, stemming from Mourinho's successful tenure at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, during which he won the La Liga title and Copa del Rey, and set a record for the most points in a La Liga season. Despite a controversial departure from Madrid, Mourinho's impact on the club remains significant.

Benfica's management views Mourinho's appointment as a necessary step to restore a winning mentality after underwhelming seasons and struggles to keep pace with rivals like FC Porto and Sporting CP. Mourinho faces the challenge of adapting his confrontational coaching style to motivate a mix of experienced and young players, with the goal of rejuvenating the team and competing at the highest level in Portuguese football.