Mourinho Dismisses Real Madrid Return Talk Ahead of Benfica

Benfica head coach José Mourinho has firmly downplayed speculation linking him with a return to Real Madrid, insisting he is fully committed to the Portuguese club ahead of their Champions League play-off encounter.

Speaking on Monday before Tuesday’s first-leg clash in Lisbon, Mourinho stated he would have no difficulty turning down Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez, amid rumours suggesting the Spanish giants could seek to reappoint him next season.

Benfica welcome the 15-time European champions to the Estádio da Luz before the return leg at the Santiago Bernabéu next week.

Contract Clause Sparks Speculation

The 63-year-old Portuguese, who previously managed Real Madrid between 2010 and 2013, has a clause in his Benfica contract allowing either party to terminate the agreement. The provision has fuelled reports that Pérez could consider bringing Mourinho back to Madrid.

However, the former Madrid boss dismissed such talk.

“Can you say no? Yes,” Mourinho told reporters when asked whether he could reject an approach from Pérez. “Yes, you can.”

Mourinho acknowledged his enduring relationship with both Pérez and the Spanish club but stressed that his focus remains entirely on Benfica.

“I gave everything to Real Madrid — absolutely everything I had,” he said. “I did good things, I did bad things, but I gave everything. When someone leaves a club with those feelings, a connection always exists.”

He added that while he appreciates the respect shown by Madrid supporters, he has no desire to encourage speculation.

“The only thing that exists is that I have another year on my contract with Benfica. It is a special contract because it was signed during an electoral period.”

Clause Linked to Benfica Elections

Mourinho explained that the break clause was inserted due to Benfica’s presidential elections, which were scheduled for November 2025, shortly after he signed his deal. The arrangement was designed to protect a potential incoming president, although Rui Costa was ultimately re-elected.

“There is a clause that is very easy for both me and Benfica to break the contract,” Mourinho said. “But the only thing that exists is my contract with Benfica. There is nothing with Real Madrid.”

Respect for Madrid — But Focus on Benfica

Despite dismissing the rumours, Mourinho admitted he would relish eliminating his former club from the competition.

“I would very much like to knock Real Madrid out of the Champions League,” he said. “But I would like Álvaro to win La Liga and to remain at Madrid for many years.”

Mourinho praised Madrid head coach Álvaro Arbeloa, describing him as a capable manager with the personality required to lead the Spanish giants.

“He is a coach with a lot of ability and someone who has Madrid within him. Coaching Madrid is not something everyone can do.”

Expectation of a Different Contest

Benfica defeated Madrid 4–2 during the league phase of the Champions League in January, a result that ultimately set up the two-legged play-off meeting.

However, Mourinho expects a far sterner test this time.

“The Real Madrid I expect tomorrow is the Real Madrid who are the number one favourites to win the Champions League,” he said.

With both sides seeking progression in Europe’s elite competition, Mourinho will be determined to ensure that the headlines remain focused on events on the pitch rather than speculation surrounding his future.