Jose Mourinho is on the verge of returning to management with Portuguese side Benfica, setting up an emotional reunion with former club Chelsea in the Champions League. The 62-year-old has been in talks with Benfica following the dismissal of Bruno Lage after their defeat to Qarabag.
Mourinho's potential return to Stamford Bridge on 30 September will evoke memories of his previous visits as an opposition manager. During a 2018 encounter with Manchester United, he was jeered by Chelsea fans and responded by holding up three fingers, symbolising the three Premier League titles he won with the club.
Explaining his gesture, Mourinho stated: 'Treated with respect? I don't think. It's not my responsibility. I have a certain level of education socially and in sport.' He added: '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.'
Mourinho could make his Benfica debut this weekend against AVS Futebol, with Rio Ave and Gil Vicente to follow before the Chelsea clash. Since leaving Chelsea for the second time, he has managed Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma, and Fenerbahce.
