According to renowned transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, legendary manager José Mourinho has agreed to become the new head coach of Benfica, marking a sensational return to his homeland.

The deal is reportedly in place, with a verbal agreement reached between Mourinho and the Portuguese giants. Formal steps are expected within the next 24 hours, with a contract running until June 2027 already prepared.

“José Mourinho to Benfica, here we go! Verbal agreement until June 2027. Mourinho has accepted Benfica proposal and the formal steps will follow in next 24h. Two year contract ready for the Special One as Benfica coach,” Romano posted.

Benfica have been without a head coach following a shock 2–3 home defeat to Qarabağ in European competition, a result that sent shockwaves through Lisbon. The loss prompted the club to act swiftly, and they’ve now turned to one of football’s most iconic figures.

Interestingly, Mourinho’s previous side, Fenerbahçe, were eliminated from the Champions League qualifiers by none other than Benfica — a defeat that played a part in his exit from the Turkish club just weeks ago.

The move to Benfica will be Mourinho’s first managerial role in Portugal since his triumphant stint at FC Porto, where he famously won the Champions League in 2004.

🚨🦅 BREAKING: José Mourinho to Benfica, here we go! Verbal agreement until June 2027.

Mourinho has accepted Benfica proposal and the formal steps will follow in next 24h.

Two year contract ready for the Special One as Benfica coach. ❤️🤍 pic.twitter.com/7ZUadcEr5e

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 17, 2025