Aursnes reacts frankly to Mourinho leaving Benfica: We had... | OneFootball

Fredrik Aursnes recently spoke about José Mourinho’s time at Benfica and was full of praise for the Special One. The Benfica midfielder recalled his time with the coach and admitted that the squad realized, even before the official announcement, that the move to Real Madrid was getting closer and closer.

The Eagles’ ‘number 8’ highlighted the strong bond that existed between Mourinho and the Benfica dressing room. “I had a good relationship with him, and he was well regarded [within the group],” he said in comments to Norwegian media outlet ‘Nettavisen’, having worked with the coach during the last season.

Despite acknowledging the frustration over missed objectives, Aursnes said he was grateful for the opportunity to work with one of the most remarkable figures in world football. “It was a bit of a year of almost [success] for us. So it was frustrating, but of course it was an honor to work with him,” he said.

The Benfica midfielder also highlighted the impact of José Mourinho’s personality on the team’s day-to-day life. “I feel like everyone knows what he is like. He has charisma and an aura around him. When he walks into a room, he commands it. But it was really good to get to know him. He’s a very nice guy, well liked, and with an infectious sense of humor that everyone at the club appreciated,” he explained.

Aursnes also made a point of underlining the more relaxed side of the Portuguese coach, often less visible to the outside world. “He’s a relatively humble guy. He’s a very nice guy. Cheerful. He likes to crack a few jokes. Basically, he spreads good vibes,” he added.

As for the move to Real Madrid, the Norway international revealed that the signs were already noticeable in the final days of the season. “He gave a small farewell in the last game, where he thanked us for the year. It kind of felt like it would be his last game. He sort of said goodbye there,” he recalled.

Asked whether the Special One had informed the squad of the decision in advance, Aursnes made it clear that there had been no direct confirmation. “He didn’t reveal it 100 percent, but it seemed like things were heading that way,” explained the Benfica player.

Despite the coach’s departure, the Norway international midfielder said he was pleased about the new challenge Mourinho is set to take on in Spain. “It will always be... It will always be something to follow,” he said, before leaving a farewell message to the former Eagles coach.

“I wish him the very best of luck at his new club, and I hope it goes well. I truly wish him all the best,” concluded Aursnes, who is currently away with the Norway national team preparing for the 2026 World Cup.

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