Speculation surrounding José Mourinho’s future intensified this week after Benfica sporting director Rui Costa publicly addressed the manager’s contract situation while Mourinho himself acknowledged ongoing contact between Real Madrid and his agent Jorge Mendes.
Speaking to RTP Notícias, Rui Costa maintained that Mourinho remains Benfica’s coach “until proven otherwise,” while confirming that the decision now rests largely with the Portuguese manager himself.
“José Mourinho is Benfica’s coach until
proven otherwise,” Rui Costa said. “It’s up to Mourinho to decide.”
Costa also revealed Benfica have already presented Mourinho with a renewal offer following the club’s strong season under his leadership.
“As for everything else, I’ll speak with the Benfica fans this week to take stock of the season,” he added.
The comments come shortly after Mourinho fueled growing rumors of a potential return to Real Madrid during an interview following Benfica’s victory over Estoril. According to most reputable sources in Spain, Mourinho to Real Madrid is all but done.
The Portuguese coach admitted he has received “an excellent offer” to extend his stay with Benfica, but also openly acknowledged communication between Real Madrid and his longtime agent Jorge Mendes.
“Starting Monday, I’ll be able to talk about my future,” Mourinho said. “It’s true that I haven’t spoken with Florentino or anyone from the organization. All of this is true.”
“But I’m not stupid,” he continued. “And there are contacts between the club (Real Madrid) and Jorge (Mendes). And I think those will turn into contacts with me during the next week.”
The current Benfica manager stressed that any eventual decision would not simply come down to finances, but rather to the sporting project and expectations attached to the role.
“It depends on the offer, on what they expect from me,” Mourinho explained. “We’re not talking about more or less money, but about what they expect from me, whether I’m able to meet their demands, the work profile they’re proposing.”
Mourinho also clarified the specifics of his current contractual situation with Benfica, suggesting the structure of his deal intentionally leaves the door open for a departure this summer if he chooses.
“I have a contract for one more year,” Mourinho said. “Nobody forced Benfica to renew it, but by not renewing it, we kept this clause open for a few days, which gives me the possibility of leaving if I so decide.”
