Mourinho's triple message to Florentino ahead of Benfica clash
The Special One drops subtle hints about his Real Madrid departure while preparing to face his former club in the Champions League.
Jose Mourinho has delivered three carefully crafted messages to Florentino Perez ahead of Benfica’s Champions League showdown with Real Madrid, reminding everyone that he left the Spanish giants on his own terms.
The Special One’s pointed remarks
In true Mourinho fashion, the Portuguese manager turned what should’ve been a standard pre-match press conference into something far more intriguing. The gaffer couldn’t resist stirring the pot before Benfica host Real Madrid at the Estádio da Luz.
His most direct statement came at the end when he declared: “You can say no to Madrid and Florentino. Of course.” Proper mic drop moment, that. The statement serves a dual purpose:
- Reminding everyone that he chose to leave Madrid
- Subtly positioning himself as someone who walks away on his own terms
”Clean soul” departure
Mourinho made a point of highlighting that he’s one of the few managers who wasn’t given the old heave-ho from the Bernabéu. He left with what he called a “clean soul” - not something many former Real gaffers can claim, if we’re being honest.
He also recalled comments from Florentino and José Ángel when he departed after three seasons without reaching a Champions League final: they said the hard work was done, and the easy part would follow. Bit of a backhanded compliment, that.
The Special One described his Madrid tenure as “difficult and violent” years, but positioned them as necessary steps in the club’s journey. Interestingly, he refused to take any credit for Madrid’s subsequent successes, including La Décima which came just a year after his exit.
Personal connection remains
On a more personal note, Mourinho revealed that his last conversation with Florentino came when he signed for Benfica. According to José, the Real president was chuffed with his decision to join “a great club.”
Mourinho expressed hope that Perez would attend the match, having missed their previous encounter, so they could catch up. “I have a great friendship [with him],” he insisted, suggesting there’s no bad blood between the pair despite the nature of his Madrid exit.
As we prepare for this tasty Champions League tie, it’s clear Mourinho still has plenty of bread and honey for his former employers - but he won’t let anyone forget who called the shots when he left the Spanish capital.