José Mourinho has been confirmed as the new head coach of Benfica, marking a return to the club where he briefly began his managerial career in 2000. The 62-year-old has agreed to a two-year contract, with a break clause at the end of the season, and is set to begin his new role immediately. This move comes shortly after his departure from Turkish side Fenerbahce last month.

Mourinho's appointment follows the sacking of Bruno Lage, who was dismissed after Benfica's recent Champions League defeat to Qarabag. The club's president, Rui Costa, emphasized the desire for a "winning coach" and highlighted Mourinho's impressive resume as a key factor in his selection. Costa expressed his pride in bringing Mourinho back to the club.

Notably, Mourinho's fourth game in charge will be against his former club, Chelsea, in the Champions League on September 30. This swift return to Stamford Bridge adds an immediate layer of intrigue to his Benfica tenure. Mourinho enjoyed considerable success at Chelsea, winning three Premier League titles across two spells.

Mourinho's first stint at Benfica was short-lived, lasting only three months, before he left due to a contract dispute following a change in the club's presidency. Now, 25 years later, he returns to a club with a rich history and high expectations. Benfica is one of Portugal's "Big Three" clubs, having never been relegated from the Primeira Liga. They are known as "As Águias" (The Eagles), "Os Encarnados" (The Reds), and "O Glorioso" (The Glorious One).

Throughout his career, Mourinho has managed some of Europe's top clubs, including Porto, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United and Tottenham. He has won the Champions League with both Porto and Inter Milan, the Europa League with Manchester United, and the Conference League with Roma. While his time at Tottenham ended without a trophy, his successes at other clubs have cemented his reputation as one of football's most accomplished managers.

Mourinho's return to Benfica has been described as a "full circle" moment, marking a return to his roots in Portuguese football. Some reports suggest the possibility of presidential elections influencing the decision, with the new president potentially seeking to bring in Mourinho. Sky Sports News' Gary Cotterill urged caution, noting that while talks had occurred, the deal was not yet finalized at the time of his report.

Mourinho himself has expressed his enthusiasm for the Benfica role, stating that he "didn't think twice" when presented with the opportunity. He acknowledged the history and significance of the club, stating he is honored and motivated to be coaching "one of the greatest clubs in the world".

Benfica's next match is in the Portuguese league against AVS, followed by the highly anticipated Champions League clash against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on September 30.