Benfica are talking to Jose Mourinho about taking over as manager. The club fired Bruno Lage after a 3-2 loss to Qarabag in the Champions League, where Benfica blew a two-goal lead at home.
Club president Rui Costa said Benfica want to appoint a new coach by Saturday. He didn’t confirm if Mourinho is the top choice, but BBC Sport says talks with Mourinho are underway. The Portuguese coach could return home after 21 years abroad.
Fenerbahce sacked Mourinho on 29 August, just two days after Benfica knocked them out of the Champions League play-offs.
Mourinho started his coaching career at Benfica in 2000, but left after only 10 games following a dispute with the club president. He went on to win six trophies with Porto, including the Champions League in 2004.
After leaving Portugal, Mourinho managed top clubs like Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham, Roma, and Fenerbahce.
If Benfica hires Mourinho, he’ll face former club Chelsea in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on 30 September. Benfica also have matches against Newcastle and Real Madrid in the group stage.
