Rui Costa, President of Benfica, during a campaign event. Source: Instagram @10ruicosta2025
The world of football thrives on drama, ambition, and the occasional strategic coup. Few names ignite conversations quite like José Mourinho, the man famously dubbed “The Special One.” His recent return to Portuguese club football, specifically to the helm of Benfica, has sent ripples across Europe. But this isn`t merely a nostalgic homecoming; it`s a meticulously orchestrated move, one that Benfica President Rui Costa has now shed considerable light on, revealing both the swiftness of the deal and the surprising financial pragmatism involved.
A Swift Negotiation: Dispelling Myths and Sealing a Deal
In the high-stakes world of managerial changes, rumors spread faster than a counter-attack. Following the departure of Bruno Lage, speculation naturally swirled around Benfica`s next move. Rui Costa, a legendary figure in his own right and now Benfica`s president, was keen to set the record straight regarding the timeline of Mourinho`s appointment.
“I give my word of honor,” Costa stated emphatically in an interview. “I spoke with José Mourinho the following morning [after Lage`s dismissal], requested a meeting, there was his will to represent Benfica, reaching an agreement near the end of the day and by the end of the day everything was concluded.”
This account paints a picture of decisive action. Benfica, it seems, wasn`t idling. While some might have expected a prolonged courtship, given Mourinho`s stature, Costa ensured that the transition was as seamless as possible. The pressure was on to secure a new leader, and to do so with a speed that defied the typical protracted sagas of modern football appointments. It appears “The Special One” was indeed receptive to a rapid return to his roots.
The Special One, Now the `Special Bargain`?
Perhaps the most intriguing revelation from Rui Costa`s interview centers on Mourinho`s compensation. For a manager synonymous with mega-clubs and even larger paychecks, the idea of a “modest” salary seems almost contradictory. Yet, that`s precisely what Costa implied.
“Mourinho understood that at Benfica he could not receive the same as in other clubs,” Costa explained, adding with a touch of blunt honesty, “it is one of the lowest salaries since he left Portugal.”
While the exact figures remain under wraps – a pragmatic choice, as Costa pointed out, “Everyone is curious to know how much the neighbor earns, let alone the Benfica coach” – the message is clear. Mourinho has, seemingly, accepted a significant pay cut. This isn`t just a sign of his attachment to his home country or a personal project; it`s a strategic concession. It implies that for Mourinho, the allure of leading Benfica, a club with deep history and fervent support, outweighed the customary financial demands that have marked his illustrious career across England, Spain, and Italy.
Comparisons, though not explicitly detailed, were drawn to the salary of Roger Schmidt, the coach who preceded Mourinho in this scenario. This suggests a careful alignment with the club`s existing financial structures, reinforcing the narrative that even a manager of Mourinho`s global brand is willing to adapt to the realities of a Portuguese football budget. It`s an interesting turn for a manager whose name has often been synonymous with financial firepower.
Benfica`s Financial Foundation and Market Ambitions
Beyond the managerial drama, Rui Costa also provided an update on Benfica`s broader strategy, particularly concerning the transfer market. Despite the high-profile managerial appointment, the club`s financial health appears robust.
- High Investment, High Quality: Costa acknowledged “high costs” incurred during the transfer window but emphasized the acquisition of “quality and international players.” This suggests a commitment to strengthening the squad with proven talent, rather than simply making speculative purchases.
- Financial Stability: Crucially, he affirmed, “Benfica is very stable financially.” This assertion counters any potential concerns that a major managerial signing might overstretch the club`s resources, especially after significant player investments.
- January Window Opportunities: Looking ahead, Costa didn`t rule out further market activity. “No squad is complete! If it is necessary to go to the January market to amend something, we will be there for it. We are always ready to improve our teams.” This indicates a flexible and proactive approach to squad building, ensuring the team remains competitive throughout the season.
These comments underscore a calculated strategy: invest wisely in players, secure a world-class manager, and maintain financial prudence. It’s a delicate balancing act that many clubs struggle with, but Benfica, under Rui Costa, seems intent on mastering it.
The Road Ahead: Expectations and European Dreams
Mourinho`s arrival, even at a “discounted” rate, signals serious intent from Benfica. Rui Costa expressed confidence that “Benfica fans should be very happy for a coach of this caliber to have accepted Benfica at first, taking into account the state it was in.” Mourinho`s track record, including winning trophies with Manchester United and guiding Roma to their first European trophy, provides a tangible basis for such optimism.
The “Special One” is known for delivering silverware, and his presence immediately elevates expectations. While the domestic league will be a primary focus, the underlying ambition surely extends to European competitions. For a club like Benfica, steeped in European history but longing for modern glory, Mourinho represents a beacon of hope. His willingness to return to Portugal, accepting a salary that might raise a few eyebrows in European football circles, only adds to the narrative of a man with a renewed mission.
As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Mourinho and Benfica. The stage is set for a fascinating chapter, blending a legendary manager`s homecoming with a club`s unwavering ambition, all underpinned by a surprisingly pragmatic financial agreement that might just be the most “special” detail of all.
