Mourinho's Madrid love affair resurfaces ahead of Champions League clash
The Special One waxes lyrical about his time at the Bernabéu before Benfica's clash with Real Madrid, hinting at unfinished business with the Spanish giants.
Jose Mourinho’s affection for Real Madrid remains undimmed as the Portuguese manager prepares to return to the Bernabéu with Benfica in the Champions League.
The Special One might be plotting Madrid’s downfall on the pitch, but his pre-match press conference was absolutely dripping with respect and nostalgia for his former employers. Proper heart on sleeve stuff from a gaffer who clearly still holds Los Blancos close to his chest.
The Madrid chapter
Mourinho was in a surprisingly relaxed mood when facing the Spanish press - quite the departure from the tension-filled exchanges during his three-year Madrid tenure. He spoke candidly about his time at the club, reflecting on both the highs and lows.
“I gave everything I had to Madrid. I did good and bad things, but I gave everything,” Mourinho admitted, suggesting the Madrid faithful still appreciate his total commitment despite the occasional barney.
Interestingly, he made a point of mentioning he’s one of the few managers to leave Madrid without getting the old heave-ho. Left of his own accord, didn’t he? Clean slate and all that.
Contract situation raising eyebrows
While firmly shutting down speculation about a potential Bernabéu return, Mourinho couldn’t help but drop a rather telling detail about his current situation at Benfica:
- Has another year on his Benfica contract
- Mentioned a “very easy” release clause for both parties
- Emphasized “zero” contact with Madrid
That contract tidbit feels significant - why mention an easy exit clause unless you’re keeping your options open? The Portuguese tactician is playing it cool, but reading between the lines, you’d have to be Brahms and Liszt not to spot he’s leaving the door ajar.
Friendship with Florentino
Mourinho spoke warmly about his relationship with Madrid president Florentino Perez, revealing they last spoke when he signed with Benfica, with Perez calling to congratulate him.
“We have a great friendship, there’s no need to hide it,” he said, adding he hopes Perez attends the match.
The challenge ahead
As for the actual football, Mourinho recognizes the difficulty of facing Madrid but refuses to see it as mission impossible. He acknowledges the quality gap but believes his Benfica side can compete, especially after their remarkable recovery in the group stage where they started with zero points from four matches.
Benfica will need to be at their absolute maximum to stand a chance, but Mourinho’s competitive spirit remains undimmed. The Special One may be wearing Benfica’s colors now, but his heart still seems to beat with a bit of Madrid rhythm.