The 4-2 lesson: How Mourinho’s Benfica masterclass convinced Real Madrid leadership | OneFootball

Portuguese coach back on the agenda before Benfica clash

The 4-2 lesson: How Mourinho’s Benfica masterclass convinced Real Madrid leadership

Jose Mourinho has emerged as possible Real Madrid coach candidate as the club prepare to face Benfica in Champions League playoff.

Mourinho’s name back in the spotlight

Ahead of Champions League playoff first leg between Benfica & Real Madrid on Tuesday, reports in Spain suggest Jose Mourinho is being discussed as a possible option to lead the Spanish club next season.

Spanish newspaper AS reported on Monday that Mourinho’s reputation inside Real Madrid has improved after what it described as “tactical lesson” delivered in the final group-stage match where Benfica beat Madrid 4-2.

Contract clause and Madrid interest

Despite Mourinho being under contract with Benfica until summer 2027, the report claims there is a clause allowing him to leave for free within ten day after Benfica’s final match of the current season.

This makes him attractive option for Real Madrid as the club would not need to pay compensation.

According to AS, Real Madrid are also unlikely to face strong competition for Mourinho. Reports linking him with the Portugal national team after the World Cup were described as inaccurate.

Sources told the newspaper that the Portuguese federation believes Mourinho’s strong personality could dominate the project and limit its success.

Relationship with Florentino Perez & Arbeloa link

The same report added that Mourinho’s relationship with Florentino Perez has improved recently. Mourinho had even planned visit to Real Madrid’s training facilities before Benfica made contact and finalized his appointment.

Real Madrid are currently coached by Alvaro Arbeloa who previously played under Mourinho during the Portuguese manager’s first spell at the club between 2010 & 2013.

That connection adds another layer of interest to the upcoming European tie.

Benfica focused on the match

While speculation grows, Benfica remain focused on Champions League. Portuguese winger Rafa Silva could play a key role after returning to the squad last month.

Mourinho explained that Rafa offers more depth in attack compared to Georgiy Sudakov though he did not rule out using both players together.

Rafa Silva brings experience having played 48 Champions League matches for Benfica with 13 goal and four assists and could return to Europe’s top stage in this crucial tie.