Mourinho back at Benfica, hits back at Fenerbahce president | OneFootball

After being dismissed by Fenerbahce, José Mourinho returns to Portugal to lead Benfica, the club that had eliminated the Turkish team in the Champions League qualifiers.

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Mourinho returns to Benfica: the Portuguese responds to the accusations from Fenerbahce's president

The official announcement of his new role was accompanied by harsh statements from Fenerbahce's president, Ali Koç, and a prompt response from the Special One.

The accusations from Fenerbahce's president

Speaking to TRT Sport, Koç commented on the news of Mourinho's new role with a critical tone:

“I heard the news about Benfica and José Mourinho. I don't know if it's true, but if it were, I would say it's a strange coincidence of life.”

This statement immediately attracted media attention, considering that the Special One had been dismissed by the Turkish club after the home defeat against Benfica in the qualifiers.

Mourinho's response

In a press conference after signing with Benfica, Mourinho clarified his position:

“When I left a club, I always closed the chapter without responding to provocations. I didn't make excuses, I didn't blame anyone. He spoke many times, but he didn't explain why the player who eliminated us was only signed after that match. I left my previous club three or four weeks ago. I didn't intend to stay idle until the end of the season. I wanted to coach.”

The coach then explained his choice to return to Portugal:

“Before boarding the plane, I was asked if I was interested in coaching Benfica. I said yes. Returning after 25 years is not a celebration of my career, but an opportunity to continue working with passion.”

Words of esteem for Bruno Lage

Mourinho finally expressed words of respect for Bruno Lage, his predecessor at Benfica:

“I understand how he feels. He has to do what we all do: suffer for the results. I look at him with immense respect and solidarity because I've been through the same thing. He is a great coach, he had an important group of players with whom I congratulated him. I respect Bruno and wish him the best for his career. My return to Portugal was not planned.”

A new chapter for Mourinho

With this appointment, Mourinho begins a new phase of his career, returning to the Portuguese league with the goal of bringing Benfica back to national and international prominence. His European experience and the competitive nature of the Special One will be key points in facing the challenges of the league and the Champions League.

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