Jose Mourinho and Benfica: Future Plans and Transfer Targets

José Mourinho has publicly reaffirmed his commitment to remain as the head coach of Benfica for the next season, despite a campaign that has seen the club’s hopes for silverware fade.

The 63-year-old manager addressed his future on April 7, 2026, following a disappointing draw against Casa Pia. During a post-match press conference, Mourinho dismissed suggestions that his representative had been attempting to engineer an exit from the Estadio da Luz.

The clarification came after journalist Rui Santos reported on CNN Portugal that super-agent Jorge Mendes had advised the manager to quit the club. Mourinho responded by insisting that he alone remains in charge of his professional destiny.

Jorge Mendes is my agent, but I am in charge of my own decision. My decision is that I would like to continue at Benfica.

José Mourinho

Mourinho is currently under contract with the Lisbon club until June 2027. He expressed a personal desire to finish his project with the Eagles, despite the shift in the season’s objectives following a frustrating run of results.

League Standings and Performance

Since taking over from Bruno Lage in September 2025, Mourinho has maintained an undefeated record in Liga Portugal. In 23 matches, he has secured 16 wins and seven draws.

Despite this unbeaten streak, Benfica has struggled to keep pace with the league leaders. The club currently sits in third place, seven points behind FC Porto and two points adrift of Sporting CP, the latter of which still possesses a game in hand.

Youth Integration and Tactical Shifts

Under Mourinho’s leadership, Benfica has embraced a more forward-thinking approach to squad management, specifically focusing on youth development and the incorporation of academy players.

A primary example of this shift is 20-year-old creative midfielder João Rego. Rego had been largely overlooked during the first 10 matches of the season under former manager Bruno Lage, appearing only on the matchday squad list for a game against Qarabag.

Following the change in leadership, Rego saw his first minutes of the season on September 20, 2025, during a brief appearance at Vila das aves. He subsequently featured in matches against Gil Vicente and FC Porto, totaling 16 minutes of playing time across three of the first five matches overseen by Mourinho.

Future Transfer Strategy

Looking ahead to the 2026/27 season, Mourinho is seeking a more prominent role in the club’s recruitment process. He has informed Benfica president Rui Costa that he wants greater influence over transfers for the upcoming campaign.

Reporting indicates that the manager has already identified specific targets to strengthen the squad, with Lukebakio and Barrenechea currently on his radar.

This current tenure marks Mourinho’s return to Portuguese football for the first time in 21 years. He originally had a managerial opportunity at Benfica in 2002 but resigned after a few matches due to a contract dispute.

Mourinho’s return to the Estadio da Luz in September 2025 followed his sacking as the manager of Fenerbahce in August 2025. He was appointed as the replacement for Bruno Lage, who was dismissed after Benfica lost their Champions League opener to Azerbaijani champions Qarabag.