Mourinho Takes Benfica Job, But Jurgen Klopp Could Replace Him After Elections
- A legendary manager has returned to the club where it all began, but questions over how long he will remain in charge have emerged
- There is reportedly an intense presidential race, where political battles may ultimately determine who truly shapes the club's future
- One ambitious candidate has set his sights on a world-class replacement, a move that could dramatically alter Benfica's direction
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José Mourinho has officially been unveiled as Benfica’s new head coach, yet his long-term future at the Estádio da Luz is already being questioned.
The Portuguese tactician, who signed a contract running until 2027 to replace Bruno Lage, may not remain in charge as long as he had expected.
Source: Getty Images
Less than a month after being dismissed by Fenerbahçe, following an ironic Champions League playoff defeat to Benfica, the former Chelsea manager is back in the dugout where his career first began in 2000.
His agreement allows both parties to reconsider their commitment just 10 days after the 2025/26 season ends; that clause has added significance ahead of the club's upcoming presidential elections on October 25.
Benfica elections already place pressure on Mourinho
According to the BBC, Benfica president Rui Costa has insisted that Mourinho’s appointment was not influenced by political manoeuvring. Speaking to reporters, he stressed that his priority remains the team’s performance.
“I haven’t campaigned at all because my responsibility is to ensure Benfica’s success this season. This decision is about protecting our sporting goals, not about personal interests or elections.”
Meanwhile, the election battle has sparked talk of alternative coaching options.
Leading candidate João Noronha Lopes is reportedly keen on Manchester United boss Rúben Amorim, having attended the Manchester derby in person.
Source: Getty Images
But another contender, lawyer Wristovao Carvalho, has set his sights even higher, with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp.
Carvalho said in an interview with Desporto ao Minuto that he had already made initial contact with the German and believes he would be open to a move to replace Mourinho, potentially.
“The door is ajar. If I win, one of my first actions will be to sit with Klopp and present him with a long-term project. I’m convinced I can persuade him to coach Benfica and lead us to Champions League glory.”
Calling Klopp 'the right coach for my project', Carvalho stressed that the German’s motivational qualities, global recognition, and ability to build sustainable teams make him his ideal choice.
He even promised unwavering support through difficult periods, saying:
“We have a project that will endure.”
With presidential candidates already considering alternatives, Mourinho’s Benfica managerial future could quickly come under pressure, with the elections scheduled for October 2025, according to ESPN.
Reactions to Mourinho returning to Benfica
Meanwhile, despite the early uncertainty surrounding the Special One's long-term future at Benfica, many fans flocked to social media to celebrate his arrival, sharing some uplifting reactions highlighted below.
@MikeAmoah commented:
“The Special One is back — this feels like destiny.”
@MiuelAmo said:
“Experience, passion, trophies… exactly what Benfica needs now.”
@SamuelApoiu reacted:
“Mourinho + Benfica = Champions League dreams alive again!”
Benfica is currently sixth in Liga Portugal and is under pressure in the UEFA Champions League, having fallen 2-3 to Azerbaijani side Qarabag FK on September 16.
According to FIFA's website, up next for the Portuguese side on the European stage is another stacked clash against Mourinho's former club, Chelsea, on September 30.
Fenerbahce parts ways with Mourinho
As earlier reported by YEN.com.gh, José Mourinho was dismissed by Turkish giants Fenerbahce on August 29, 2025.
His departure came just 24 hours after the club’s disappointing exit from the Champions League qualifying rounds.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
