Jose Mourinho could be about to make a stunning return to Benfica – and a dramatic reunion with Chelsea may be just around the corner.
The 62-year-old Portuguese manager is currently a free agent after parting ways with Fenerbahce following their Champions League qualification failure. His sudden availability has sparked major speculation about where the two-time Champions League winner will go next.
Benfica Closing in on Mourinho Deal
According to reports from A Bola, Benfica are closing in on a deal to bring Mourinho back to his homeland. Talks are said to be progressing quickly, and an agreement could even be finalised as early as Wednesday.
This potential move would mark a full-circle moment for Mourinho. Benfica gave him his first managerial role back in 2000, where he managed just 11 games before moving on to Uniao de Leiria. From there, Mourinho’s career skyrocketed with historic success at Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Real Madrid.
Chelsea Return
But what excites fans most is the imminent showdown with Chelsea. If Mourinho seals his return to Benfica, he will immediately be on a collision course with his former club, as Benfica are scheduled to face Chelsea in the Champions League in just two weeks.
Jose Mourinho is close to becoming Benfica's new manager according to reports… His first Champions League game back would be against Chelsea 👀 pic.twitter.com/d9HpkAWAaf
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) September 17, 2025
The possibility of Mourinho – a manager who defined an era at Stamford Bridge – coming up against Chelsea on Europe’s biggest stage adds another layer of drama to an already highly anticipated fixture.
Football fans around the world will be watching closely to see if Mourinho’s Benfica comeback sets the stage for a blockbuster clash against Chelsea that could reignite one of football’s most iconic storylines.
