It took José Mourinho less than 30 days to land another big job after being sacked by Fenerbahce of Turkey. This time it was Benfica who decided to bet on the Portuguese tactician once again — a full-circle moment, as Mourinho actually began his managerial career there back in 2000.

But what caught everyone’s attention wasn’t just the appointment. It was what Mourinho said at his unveiling.

“I want to tell you that none of the clubs I’ve had the opportunity to coach have motivated me more than being Benfica’s coach,” Mourinho declared.

For Chelsea fans, that line will sting. After all, Mourinho is the man who gave the Blues some of their greatest memories — back-to-back Premier League titles in 2005 and 2006, the famous “Special One” press conference, and a ruthless winning mentality that transformed the club forever.
And yet, here he is saying Benfica means more to him than Chelsea, Real Madrid, or even his beloved Inter Milan.

He doubled down on his loyalty to his new club as he said: “The promise is clear: I will live for Benfica, for my mission. It’s a tremendous honour.”

Of course, Mourinho has always had a flair for the dramatic. But the weight of his words will sting his loyal followers from his past clubs. “None of the clubs I’ve had the opportunity to coach” — and let’s remember, that list includes Chelsea, Manchester United, and Real Madrid. He even won the Champions League with Porto, Benfica’s fiercest rivals.
To rate Benfica as a bigger motivator than all those clubs is nothing short of stunning.

For Chelsea supporters, it might feel like déjà vu. Mourinho has always had a complicated relationship with the club he once called “home.” He delivered trophies and unforgettable moments, but his messy departures left scars. And now, by putting Benfica above Stamford Bridge in his personal hierarchy, he’s added another twist to the Special One saga.

One thing is certain: Mourinho never fails to make headlines — and Chelsea fans will be debating this latest revelation for a long time to come.