“Mourinho challenges critics and promises to be himself until the END.”

On the eve of the highly anticipated clash between Benfica and FC Porto, José Mourinho, the controversial Portuguese coach, did not shy away from responding to the criticisms directed at him. In an emotionally charged press conference, Mourinho provided a detailed analysis of the first months of his new stint at Benfica and reaffirmed his determination to maintain his identity, regardless of the adversities he faces.

“I will be Mourinho until the end,” he declared firmly, challenging others’ expectations. “The dialogue with the players has gone very well, but I cannot be what you want me to be. Neither as a man nor as a coach.” With these words, Mourinho made it clear that he would not succumb to external pressures. “I cannot play poorly and say I played well; I cannot accept mediocrity, neither from others nor from myself,” he added, reflecting on the recent elimination from the League Cup in the semi-finals against SC Braga.

The coach did not hesitate to criticize what he considered an “endless soap opera” surrounding his performances and decisions, recalling that, on the eve of the defeat, he expressed his desire to win the competition, not for himself, but for the fans and the quality of the group he has at his disposal. “It is a fantastic group, from a human perspective; I love those guys,” he emphasized, reaffirming his connection with the players.

Mourinho also stood out by sharing his perspective on his long career, where the relationship with his players has become one of the most rewarding aspects. “Thank God I’m not talking about 100% of my players, otherwise something would be wrong,” he said, referring to the contact he maintains with former players, some of whom are 55 years old, who frequently reach out to him. “I got to where I am being who I am and how I am, and most of my players like me, and I’m talking about hundreds of players.”

He exemplified his direct approach: “I can tell a player ‘you didn’t play at all,’ I can publicly criticize, but I can also defend those who deserve it. When they wanted to criticize Dahl for the assist he made to Patrick Schick, I went out saying that you don’t touch Dahl, that on Sunday it was Dahl and 10 others.” This passionate defense illustrates his commitment to his players and his refusal to bend to external criticism.

Mourinho was undeterred and concluded with a powerful statement about his journey: “I got here on my own merit, you know where I’ve reached. Just as players like Ronaldo, Eusébio, and Figo reached where they did, as a coach only one in Portugal has made it. I’m not going to change, I’m sorry.” With these words, the “Special One” reaffirms his position in football, determined to continue his journey without compromising his essence.

The classic match against FC Porto promises to be a stage for intense emotions, where Mourinho will undoubtedly bring all his conviction and passion for football, challenging not only critics but also the expectations of all the fans.