José Mourinho – Foto: X.com/ SL Benfica
José Mourinho, Benfica’s coach, faces Chelsea this Tuesday (30) in the second round of the Champions League league phase at Stamford Bridge, London. The Portuguese, who managed the Blues from 2004-2007 and 2013-2015, won eight titles, including three Premier Leagues. In a press conference, he highlighted his historical connection with Chelsea but stressed that his focus during the match will be solely on Benfica’s victory. The game, at 4:00 PM (Brasília time), will be broadcast by SBT, TNT, and HBO Max.
The clash marks Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge, where he built a storied career. The 62-year-old coach, with over 300 games for Chelsea, became a club icon. He emphasized that, despite the emotional tie, his priority is Benfica, the club he has led since the start of the season.
- Three Premier Leagues (2004/05, 2005/06, 2014/15)
- Three English League Cups (2005, 2007, 2015)
- One FA Cup (2007)
- One English Super Cup (2005)
Mourinho reiterated that his experience prepares him to face former clubs without hesitation.
🎙 José Mourinho anteviu a deslocação a Stamford Bridge.#CFCSLB | #UCL
— SL Benfica (@SLBenfica) September 29, 2025
Career marked by reunions
Mourinho, with 25 years of coaching, has managed clubs like Porto, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, and Manchester United. He has faced former teams multiple times, such as Porto against Chelsea and Inter against Barcelona. “Football is like that. They want to win, I want to win,” he said.
He stressed his ability to set emotions aside during the 90 minutes. Before and after the game, Chelsea is “his,” but during the match, Benfica takes precedence.
Storied Champions League record
Mourinho won the Champions League in 2003/04 with Porto and 2009/10 with Inter Milan. Between 2010 and 2014, he reached the semifinals with Real Madrid and Chelsea. Now with Benfica, he aims to replicate that success in his second stint with the Portuguese club, under contract until 2026/27.
His return to Benfica comes 21 years after leaving Porto, their historic rival. His experience in top European clubs raises expectations for Benfica’s campaign.
Benfica under new leadership
After leaving Fenerbahçe, Mourinho took over Benfica to strengthen the club in the Champions League and Portuguese league. Known for his tactical approach, he faces a Chelsea side in good Premier League form.
Benfica arrives with a revamped squad, aiming to solidify its position in the league phase. Portuguese fans hope Mourinho’s expertise will overcome the London challenge.
Pressure at Stamford Bridge
Chelsea, led by Enzo Maresca, is in a rebuilding phase. The London side seeks to establish itself in the continental competition after an inconsistent season.
Stamford Bridge will be packed, with fans torn between supporting Chelsea and honoring Mourinho’s legacy. The Portuguese coach, however, assured his focus is solely on Benfica’s victory.
The match promises to be a milestone in Mourinho’s career, facing one of his most iconic clubs on a historic European football stage. The result could shape Benfica’s tournament journey.
Match expectations
The Chelsea-Benfica clash is a highlight of the round. Beyond the historical weight of Mourinho’s reunion with the Blues, the game features two traditional clubs vying for a statement win in the Champions League.
Benfica, under Mourinho, aims to surprise away from home. Chelsea, meanwhile, relies on its squad’s strength to secure three points. The tactical and technical rivalry promises a balanced duel.
