Benfica's Mourinho plays down Real Madrid return rumour before rematch

Benfica manager Jose Mourinho stressed that he could turn down an offer from Real Madrid president Florentino Perez, dismissing speculation about a possible comeback to the Spanish club on Monday.

Mourinhos Benfica will welcome Real Madrid for the first leg of their Champions League play-off tie on Tuesday, with the return fixture set for the Santiago Bernabeu the following week.

The 63-year-old Portuguese tactician, who managed Madrid from 2010 to 2013, includes a release clause in his Benfica deal that permits him to leave, sparking talk that Perez might seek him out for next season.

Mourinho steered Benfica to a 4-2 win against Alvaro Arbeloas Real Madrid during the Champions League league stage in January, setting up this two-legged play-off encounter between the sides.

"Could you refuse? Absolutely," Mourinho remarked to journalists when questioned about rebuffing an advance from the Madrid leader. "Of course you could."

Mourinho acknowledged his "strong bond" with Perez and an enduring link to Madrid, but explained the exit provision was included due to the upcoming Benfica presidential vote in November 2025, shortly after he inked his agreement.

"I poured all my effort into Real Madrid, all that I possessed, I achieved successes, I made mistakes, yet I committed fully and that concludes it," Mourinho stated.

"When one departs a team carrying such emotions, a tie lingers... supporters hold me in high regard, which is wonderful, though I aim not to fuel tales without foundation...

"What truly matters is my remaining year under contract with Benfica. It stands as a unique arrangement, forged amid election times."

Mourinho noted the pact was designed to safeguard any incoming president, even though Rui Costa ultimately secured re-election.

"A provision exists that simplifies ending the deal for Benfica and me alike, yet the sole reality is my Benfica commitment, with zero ties to Real Madrid," Mourinho affirmed.

"I truly hope to knock Real Madrid out of the Champions League, though I wish Alvaro success in La Liga and a long tenure at Madrid.

"He strikes me as a highly skilled manager, a young man with Madrid in his blood, possessing the character to lead Madrid, a role not suited to just anybody."

Mourinho anticipated a contrasting match from the January Lisbon clash where his team overpowered Madrid, underscoring the strength of Arbeloas squad, the 15-time title holders.

"The Real Madrid facing us tomorrow is the prime contender to claim the Champions League trophy," Mourinho concluded.