Benfica: a first in the history of José Mourinho

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Foot Africa

·26 settembre 2025

Benfica: a first in the history of José Mourinho

On September 18, José Mourinho took his seat on the Benfica bench, succeeding Bruno Lage and bringing an end to a brief, turbulent stint at Fenerbahçe, which concluded amid disagreements with the management. In just two matches, the Portuguese tactician has already laid down his first markers: one win, one draw, a tightened game plan, and a message that quickly galvanized a locker room desperate for direction. Benfica was searching for a sense of purpose—Mourinho brings structure, daily demands, and a combative mentality tailored for European nights. In Lisbon, expectations are sky-high, but the buy-in is already evident, from senior players to youngsters, not to mention a fanbase that longed for a leader to guide their transition.