Jose Mourinho is reportedly on the verge of returning to Benfica, setting up a potentially dramatic return to Stamford Bridge to face his former club, Chelsea. Recent reports indicate that Mourinho, who was dismissed by Fenerbahce last month, is close to taking charge at Benfica.

Mourinho's potential swift return to management comes after a somewhat tumultuous period. He was sacked by Fenerbahce after just over a year in charge, despite the club providing him with numerous new players. Fenerbahce finished second in the league, trailing rivals Galatasaray by 11 points, and the final straw was their Champions League play-off defeat to Benfica. Now, in a twist of fate, Mourinho is poised to capitalize on that setback by potentially taking over at Benfica.

The appointment is expected to be confirmed soon, with Mourinho potentially taking charge of his first training session on Thursday. He replaces Bruno Lage, who was sacked following Benfica's unexpected home loss to Qarabag in the Champions League. CNN Portugal reports that Benfica has an agreement in principle with Mourinho, and club president Rui Costa has stated that they expect to have a new coach in place before their weekend fixture.

Mourinho's return to Benfica marks a full circle moment, as it was his first job in management 25 years ago. His initial stint was brief, cut short by presidential elections. According to Sky Sports News' Gary Cotterill, the upcoming presidential elections at Benfica are a factor in this appointment, with the new president already putting forward Mourinho's name.

One of the most compelling aspects of this potential appointment is the immediate prospect of Mourinho facing Chelsea in the Champions League on September 30. This would be his first appearance at Stamford Bridge as an opposition manager since November 2020. Mourinho enjoyed great success at Porto before joining Chelsea in 2004. There he proclaimed himself as the 'Special One' and led the Blues to three Premier League titles across two spells.

Current Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has already expressed his admiration for Mourinho, calling him a "legend". Maresca acknowledged Mourinho's legendary status at Chelsea, recognizing his significant trophy haul and achievements with the club.

Mourinho himself has confirmed his interest in the Benfica job. He stated that Benfica approached him before he left Fenerbahce and that he expressed his interest in coaching them. He emphasized his desire to coach and his need to find the right club. "When asked if I wanted to coach Benfica, I did not think twice. It interests me," Mourinho told reporters.

Beyond the Chelsea reunion, Mourinho's appointment also raises the possibility of facing Newcastle United in December, another club with ties to his past, where he worked under Sir Bobby Robson. This return to Benfica offers Mourinho a chance to revitalize his career and potentially add another chapter to his storied managerial legacy.