Zing Muse – Benfica announces José Mourinho as new manager on a two-year deal. The website crashes under fan traffic, and his Champions League return kicks off with a clash against Chelsea.

Benfica’s Bombshell Announcement

Lisbon, September 18, 2025 — Benfica has confirmed the appointment of José Mourinho as its new head coach on a two-year contract. The announcement generated such massive traffic that the club’s official website briefly crashed.

The news was released via Benfica’s official Twitter account, followed by a regulatory statement to the Portuguese Securities Market Commission (CMVM), confirming that an agreement in principle had been reached. The club noted that only final contract formalities remain.

As a publicly traded entity, Benfica is legally obliged to update CMVM about any decision that could affect its share price, including managerial changes.

Mourinho Steps Back into Benfica’s Dugout

Mourinho will take charge of his first training session today. While detailed terms of the contract haven’t been disclosed, insiders confirm all key conditions have been agreed.

This comeback to Benfica carries special symbolism. Mourinho briefly managed the Portuguese giants in 2000 before launching a legendary career with Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester United.

From Fenerbahçe Exit to Benfica’s Hot Seat

Mourinho’s hiring comes less than a month after being dismissed by Fenerbahçe. His relationship with the Turkish club soured following disagreements with the board and a Champions League qualifying defeat to Benfica.

Now, “The Special One” returns to where it all began, with Benfica hoping he can deliver both domestic success and European progress.

Champions League Drama: Benfica vs Chelsea

Perhaps the most tantalizing aspect of Mourinho’s return is the timing. His first Champions League group-stage match will be against Chelsea — the club where he first built his global reputation.

• Match Date: October 1, 2025

• Kick-off: 2:00 AM (local time)

Before the Chelsea clash, Benfica will face AVS (Sept 21), Rio Ave (Sept 24), and Gil Vicente (Sept 27) in the Portuguese league.

This UCL fixture also marks Mourinho’s comeback to Europe’s elite competition after five years. His last appearance was in 2020, when Tottenham were eliminated by RB Leipzig in the round of 16.

What This Means for Benfica and Mourinho?

Benfica’s decision to appoint Mourinho signals serious ambition. Fans expect his tactical acumen and fiery personality to elevate the team both in the domestic Primeira Liga and on the continental stage.

Facing Chelsea in his first Champions League game back is a storyline football romantics could hardly script better. All eyes will be on whether Mourinho still has the magic to upset Europe’s giants.

Linda (sports)