Jose Mourinho: I expressed my regrets to Álvaro Arbeloa regarding the goal celebration.

José Mourinho stated that he expressed his regrets to Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa for his animated celebrations following Benfica’s thrilling 4-2 victory in the Champions League on Wednesday.

A header in the 98th minute from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin at the Estadio da Luz secured Benfica’s advancement to the knockout phase playoffs by a narrow margin.

The last-minute goal ignited jubilant scenes in Lisbon as Mourinho’s coaching staff and substitutes rushed onto the field, while the former Madrid manager celebrated by raising his fists and gesturing to the crowd, directly in front of his former player and friend Arbeloa.

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“I apologize for the way I celebrated,” Mourinho remarked during his post-match press conference.

“However, Álvaro is a football professional, and he completely understood that in that moment, you forget that it’s Real Madrid, and that’s Álvaro on the bench, along with [Madrid delegate] Chendo and all your people; you forget everything. I have apologized.”

Mourinho managed Arbeloa during his tenure at the Bernabéu from 2010 to 2013, with the defender becoming one of his key on-field leaders.

“For me, it was a privilege and an honor to be coached by José Mourinho,” Arbeloa stated upon his appointment as Madrid coach. “He had a significant influence on me … If I attempt to be José Mourinho, I will fail spectacularly.”

Benfica’s European journey this season commenced with four straight losses, leading to increased pressure on Mourinho as his team trails rivals Porto and Sporting in the Portuguese league.

“I am currently in a phase where I focus less on myself and more on the players and the club,” Mourinho commented on Wednesday.