Rui Costa defends Mourinho and dismisses rumors of leaving Benfica.

The Portuguese and European football market is in turmoil, with explosive rumors pointing to a possible and unexpected return of José Mourinho to Real Madrid. However, Rui Costa, president of Benfica, has put a stop to these speculations, categorically reaffirming the coach’s continued leadership of the Eagles. Rui Costa’s firm stance douses the conversations that had deemed the departure of the most high-profile coach in world football as a certainty.

In a strong statement to the press, Rui Costa left no room for doubt: “Until proven otherwise, the coach of Benfica is José Mourinho.” This statement, quoted by Mundo Deportivo, clearly demonstrates the club’s position to maintain focus on the current project led by the ‘Special One’, immediately dismissing any ideas of a rupture or imminent departure.

The president of Benfica not only defended the coach but also revealed that Mourinho’s contractual future is still under negotiation. “As for everything else, if you allow me, I will speak with the Benfica members this week and explain the season we are experiencing,” Rui Costa assured, expressing his openness to a transparent dialogue and to presenting the complete picture of the situation to the fans.

This public intervention comes at a time when rumors about the possibility of Mourinho returning to Real Madrid are gaining momentum, fueled by sources close to the coach and the clubs’ activities in the transfer market. However, Benfica remains firm, with Rui Costa reiterating that they will only accept Mourinho leaving the club if there is concrete evidence to that effect.

José Mourinho, known for his charisma and ability to lead top teams, remains in the spotlight, but with the institutional backing of Benfica ensuring stability and confidence for the immediate future. The president of the Lisbon club makes it clear that the focus is on the current season, and any decision regarding the coach will be communicated officially when the time is right.

This stance by Rui Costa is an unequivocal signal to the market and to fans: Benfica is not willing to lose its coach hastily and will continue to fight to keep one of the most influential names in world football at the Luz. The expectation now is for the meeting with the members, where all details regarding Mourinho’s continuity and the club’s ambitions for the coming seasons will be clarified.

In summary, despite the media buzz and the speculation that fuels the sports press, Benfica maintains its line of defense and confidence in the project led by José Mourinho. Until proven otherwise, the Special One is and will continue to be the commander of the eagles, at least until new and official confirmations. The official truth is reserved for the club’s next communication, which promises to be decisive for the future of the world’s most famous Portuguese coach.

This article first appeared on Apito Final.