OffsAIde
·17 January 2026
Ruben Amorim ‘to be lined up’ by Benfica if Mourinho returns to Real Madrid

In partnership with
Yahoo sportsOffsAIde
·17 January 2026

Ruben Amorim could take charge of Benfica at the start of 2026/2027 if José Mourinho returns to Real Madrid.
Glorioso 1904 reports that Amorim is viewed as the leading candidate to replace Mourinho, should the current coach accept an invitation to go back to the Bernabéu.
Mourinho’s exit is linked to a poor run at the Santiago Bernabéu, with Madrid seeking an experienced option for the dugout. He has a clause in his Benfica deal allowing him to leave without compensation up to 10 days after the season ends.
Faced with that contractual vulnerability, Benfica have turned their focus to Amorim, who has been unattached since leaving Manchester United.
Amorim’s appeal rests on his deep knowledge of Portuguese football and his success with Sporting, where he won three league titles in six seasons. His long spell as a Benfica player, close to a decade, is also being weighed as the club seeks unity after a trophyless campaign.
The interest emerges as Benfica move early in planning for next season.
His profile includes improving assets and modern tactical systems, and his standing in Portugal remains high, not least after a run of 11 wins in 11 matches with Sporting before moving to Manchester. Any move now hinges on confirmation of Mourinho’s return to the Bernabéu.
Benfica, out of the Taça da Liga and Taça de Portugal, now turn to the league. They face Rio Ave on Saturday, day 17, at Estádio dos Arcos from 20:30, marking the start of the second round in Liga Portugal Betclic.
Source: Glorioso 1904









































