Jose Mourinho is in talks to become the next manager of Benfica, following the dismissal of Bruno Lage after a Champions League defeat to Qarabag. If appointed, the Portuguese coach would return to Stamford Bridge with Benfica for a Champions League match on 30 September.
Mourinho's previous returns to Chelsea have been marked by tension. During a 2018 Premier League match as Manchester United manager, he held up three fingers to Chelsea fans, symbolising the Premier League titles he won at the club. He later said: 'They can call me what they want. I am a professional. I defend my club. Until the moment they have a manager that wins four Premier Leagues for them, I'm the No. 1.'
The 61-year-old's potential debut could come against AVS Futebol this weekend. Benfica also face Rio Ave and Gil Vicente before their Champions League trip to London.
Since leaving Chelsea for the second time in 2015, Mourinho has managed Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma, and Fenerbahce. His most recent role ended earlier this season after leaving the Turkish club.
