Rui Costa rebuffs José Mourinho; president talks Benfica future | OneFootball

Rui Costa was heard again this Thursday, April 9, at the Assembly of the Republic, this time by Chega’s parliamentary group, after already having met with PS and PSD. The Benfica president took the opportunity to address Club matters, from the team’s performances to structural issues in Portuguese football, and dismissed the words of José Mourinho who had said that the Eagles were out of the title race.

The top official made it clear that there is no discussion whatsoever about the coach’s immediate future: "There isn’t much to say. He has a contract for one more year, it’s not an issue. I saw the statements of a coach who was displeased with the team’s performance, as we all were. .

The president reiterated that the team cannot give up until the end of the season: "We are obliged to believe in every position as long as it is still possible. That is the duty of the players and of every person who works at Benfica, also out of the respect that must be shown to the club. The following seasons begin to be prepared from the first matchday of the current season. This one was prepared to win the national championship and have a good run in the Champions League".

Beyond what happens on the pitch, Rui Costa focused on the Club’s structural and regulatory concerns: "Above all, to make our concerns known. And for the parties to be aware of the concerns of a Club like Benfica, which does not come only to defend its own interests, but also those of Portuguese football".

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇵🇹 here.