Jose Mourinho downplays speculation regarding a return to Real Madrid prior to Champions League match.
Benfica’s manager Jose Mourinho has dismissed rumors regarding a possible return to Real Madrid ahead of the Champions League playoff match between the two teams tomorrow.
Real Madrid’s Vinícius Júnior expressed admiration for Mourinho prior to Tuesday’s match in Lisbon, stating that the Portuguese coach “altered the club’s history somewhat” during his tenure (2010-13) with the Spanish side.
“I do not wish to propagate stories that are unfounded,” Mourinho remarked on Monday. “The only reality is that I have one year remaining on my contract with Benfica. It is a unique contract as it was established during [the club’s] presidential election period.
“It includes a clause that can be easily activated by either myself or Benfica. There is nothing with Real Madrid.
“I would be thrilled to eliminate Real Madrid, but I also hope for Alvaro [Arbeloa] to win LaLiga and to stay at Madrid for many years.
“He is highly capable, possesses a strong Madridista spirit, and has the character to manage Real Madrid, which is not suited for everyone.”
Mourinho, 63, led Madrid to a LaLiga championship, a Copa del Rey title, and a Spanish Supercup victory, taking great pride in his time at the club.
“I dedicated everything to Real Madrid,” he stated. “I gave all that I had. I have made both good and bad decisions, but I committed fully, and that is what matters. When a professional departs a club with such feelings, a lifelong bond often forms.
“I left 12 years ago, and I have consistently felt that connection and affection.”
Mourinho also mentioned that he anticipates a different Madrid compared to the one that lost 4-2 to Benfica in their last group match on January 28, a result that enabled the Portuguese team to advance to the playoffs.
Los Blancos, who appointed Arbeloa last month following the dismissal of Xabi Alonso, enter the match following three consecutive league victories.
“I expect tomorrow’s Real Madrid to be the leading contender for the Champions League,” Mourinho noted. “Defeating Real Madrid once is quite challenging; defeating them twice is significantly harder. Winning three times, or in a knockout scenario, is even more complex.
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“What is even more crucial is their drive to win the Champions League, rather than simply eliminating Benfica. That is their goal, and it represents their greatest advantage in this match. On our side, we triumphed in our last encounter, and we understand the reasons. However, we recognize that this match will not mirror the previous one, as they have significantly progressed as a team in a brief period.
“What I request from my players is to compete with the enthusiasm of those who deserve to be here, and they certainly do. Perhaps it is preferable to face the formidable Real Madrid rather than a lesser opponent.”
The second leg is scheduled for February 25 at the Bernabeu stadium.
“We will relish tomorrow’s match,” Mourinho stated. “We aim for a result that leaves us feeling positive. Then we will head to Madrid to compete, approaching it with joy and without pressure.
“I do not believe a miracle is required for Benfica to eliminate Real Madrid. I think Benfica must perform at their absolute best. I do not even mean at their peak, but rather at their utmost, nearly achieving perfection, which is unattainable. But not a miracle.”
