José Mourinho’s former assistant says there were talks with Real Madrid before Benfica showdown | OneFootball

Aitor Karanka, José Mourinho’s former assistant, says there were contacts between Mourinho and Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez ahead of Benfica’s Champions League meeting with Madrid on 28 January.

"As far as I know, at some point there was a conversation. I do not remember how long ago." He was speaking on Spanish podcast El Cafelito.

"Maybe it was the timing in the season, maybe it was mid-season, or José was in another project. No one is surprised by José’s relationship with the Real Madrid president."

Karanka worked under Mourinho at Real Madrid across three seasons, 2010/2011, 2011/2012 and 2012/2013. They won La Liga in 2011/2012, the Copa del Rey in 2010/2011 and the Spanish Super Cup in 2012/2013. The team also reached three straight Champions League semi-finals.

Mourinho will face familiar opposition on 28 January at 20:00 at Estádio da Luz. The match will close the UEFA Champions League league phase. Real Madrid beat Monaco 6-1 on Tuesday, the 20th, at the Bernabéu.

Source: Glorioso 1904