José Mourinho faced the media on the eve of Benfica’s crucial Champions League clash against Juventus, discussing everything from his admiration for Luciano Spalletti to speculation about his future. True to form, the Portuguese coach mixed humour, respect and competitive edge as he addressed the topics on everyone’s mind.
Focus on Rafa and team selection
When asked about Besiktas striker Rafa Silva, Mourinho immediately shut down transfer talk.
“I won’t speak about players from other clubs. Rafa belongs to Besiktas right now. I have to protect my club and only talk about Benfica players,” he said firmly.
Turning to his own squad, Mourinho gave one notable team update.
“The only thing I’ll say about the line-up is that Bruma will start on the bench. He admitted he’s not 100% and can’t play 90 minutes, but I know I can count on his experience and desire to help us. He was injured right before my eyes when I was at Fenerbahçe and I didn’t expect him back so soon. Fifteen years ago, he promised me: ‘Bring me to your team and I’ll score for you’. Now it’s time he keeps that promise.”
The importance of winning
With Benfica needing a result to keep their qualification hopes alive, Mourinho acknowledged the stakes.
“It’s a final like every other one, but looking at the table, we need to win. I don’t know how many points will be enough — we’ll find out at the end. There’s pressure, of course, but we’ll play to win.”
On Spalletti and the Juventus challenge
The Portuguese manager also shared his thoughts on Juventus and Italy boss Luciano Spalletti.
“The relationship isn’t what matters, but in Italy and Portugal these things always become stories. The real story is Juventus vs Benfica in the Champions League. Spalletti said something beautiful in his press conference, calling Benfica a piece of football history, and I thank him for that. But when we play in the Champions League, Mourinho vs Spalletti doesn’t matter. I respect him a lot — as a coach, I really like him.”
Mourinho then praised his opponent’s tactical strength.
“Luciano’s teams are always organised and play fast, vertical football. When you have a great coach and the best players in the country, you can only expect quality. He had it in Rome, then in Naples, and now with Juventus — always strong sides.”
The atmosphere and returning memories
Speaking about playing in Turin, Mourinho smiled at the memories.
“I’ve played here with Inter, Roma and Manchester United. Of course, playing here with Inter was different — that’s where the ‘love story’ began, in quotes. But it’s fantastic to play here: a modern stadium, in the true sense, with an intense, passionate atmosphere — typical of Juventus. My players know what it means to face a great team. We have injuries, yes, but we are Benfica, and we’ll fight until the end.”
On Juventus and the idea of coaching them
When asked whether he could see himself managing Juventus in the future, Mourinho’s answer was immediate.
“For me, the only surprise is when coaches without history get the chance to lead the best clubs in the world. That’s the real surprise. When Milan hire Max, Juventus hire Luciano and Roma go with Gasperini, that’s not surprising to me. Would I coach Juventus? Of course!”
Portuguese football and economic realities
Reflecting on Portuguese clubs’ position in European football, he noted the financial gap.
“Whether we like it or not, club football is hugely influenced by economics, and the financial power is concentrated in countries outside Portugal. The three big Portuguese clubs can all reach the Europa League final — that’s realistic. But in the Champions League, it’s harder when you compare the level of investment.”
Winning above all
Finally, Mourinho underlined his philosophy — success first, style second.
“If you ask me whether I’d rather play well or win tomorrow, I want to win. But playing well is the way to win. What does ‘playing well’ even mean these days? It’s a trendy thing for people who’ve never sat on a bench. I’d rather play badly and win — though I don’t think it’s possible. I just don’t get that concept.”
