Jose Mourinho has dismissed any speculation about returning as Real Madrid's head coach, despite increasing pressure on Xabi Alonso. Currently managing Benfica, Mourinho previously led Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013. During his tenure, he achieved a 76.3% win rate in LaLiga, winning 87 out of 114 matches and scoring 326 goals. His accomplishments include the 2011-12 league title, the 2011 Copa del Rey, and the 2012 Supercopa de España.
Benfica has struggled in the Champions League this season, earning only three points from five games. This performance places them at 30th in the league phase, making their upcoming match against Napoli crucial. Mourinho recently secured his first Champions League victory with Benfica by defeating Ajax 2-0. The
last time he won consecutive games in this competition was in November 2018 with Manchester United.
Mourinho's past signings at Real Madrid included Luka Modric, Mesut Ozil, and Angel Di Maria. He also brought in Ricardo Carvalho and Michael Essien from Chelsea. When asked about a potential return to Madrid before Benfica's match against Napoli, Mourinho stated: "It's a closed chapter; you're the one who opened it. "
This upcoming match marks the eighth managerial face-off between Mourinho and Antonio Conte. Their last encounter was during the 2018 FA Cup final when Conte's Chelsea defeated Manchester United 1-0. Out of their previous seven meetings, Conte has won four times, while Mourinho has two victories and one draw.
Mourinho remains steadfast in his approach to football management. He remarked: "I treat every match as a final; I don't know if that's a good or a bad thing. " Despite being in management for 25 years, he insists that he will not change his methods. He acknowledged Napoli's strength under their current coach.
#UCL nights are back.
pic.twitter.com/m6CPmIk96n SL Benfica (@slbenfica_en)
Mourinho's career is marked by significant achievements and memorable rivalries. His time at Real Madrid was notable for both success on the field and high-profile player acquisitions. As he continues with Benfica, his focus remains on achieving success in both domestic and European competitions without altering his long-standing coaching philosophy.
