Mourinho aims to eliminate Real Madrid and wishes for Arbeloa’s victory in La Liga.

On the eve of one of the most anticipated matches of the season, [José Mourinho](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/alvaro-arbeloa-revela-a-prioridade-crucial-nos-planos-taticos-do-real-madrid/), the charismatic coach of Benfica, made a surprising statement that promises to shake up the football world. In a candid conversation ahead of the Champions League qualifying clash, Mourinho addressed rumors about a possible return to [Real Madrid](https://apitofinal.pt/nacional/raphinha-expressa-revolta-apos-derrota-com-o-girona-e-lanca-desafio/), a topic that has dominated discussions among fans and critics. “I don’t want to fuel stories that don’t exist,” he said, smiling as he dismissed any speculation about his future.

The Portuguese coach did not shy away from discussing his past at [Real Madrid](https://apitofinal.pt/internacional/agente-desmente-rumores-do-real-madrid-szoboszlai-concentra-se-no-liverpool/), where he left an indelible mark. “Yes, of course, you can say no to Florentino Pérez,” he stated, referring to the president of the Merengue club. Mourinho reminisced about his time in Madrid, emphasizing: “I gave everything I had to [Real Madrid](https://apitofinal.pt/nacional/rui-costa-confirma-jose-mourinho-como-treinador-do-benfica-na-proxima-epoca/). I did good things and bad things, but I fully committed myself. I feel that people respect me for that, for my successes and my mistakes.”

Despite his emotional connection to the club, Mourinho was clear about his intentions: “The reality is that I have one more year with Benfica, with a clause that is very easy to terminate for both parties. There is nothing open with Real Madrid.” In an intriguing twist, he expressed a peculiar desire: “I would really like to eliminate Real Madrid, and for Arbeloa to win La Liga and stay at Real Madrid for a long time. He is a great guy and deserves it.”

Mourinho also took the opportunity to talk about his relationship with Florentino Pérez, revealing that the last time they spoke was when he signed with Benfica. “He congratulated me and I hope he comes tomorrow. We have a great friendship, there is no need to hide that,” the coach stated, showing a more personal side of his relationship with the Real president.

In a reflection on his departure from Real Madrid, Mourinho recalled the words he received from Pérez and vice-president José Ángel Sánchez: “They told me that I was leaving just when the good times were arriving, that I had already done the hard work. But I thought it was the right moment because my family comes first.” He acknowledged that the turbulence that followed his departure was not his fault, but rather the result of the hard work of those who remained behind.

Thus, while Benfica fans prepare for an exciting clash, Mourinho’s words resonate as a reminder of his complex relationship with Real Madrid, while reaffirming his commitment to the club from Luz. What does the future hold for this football icon? The football world will be watching the next chapters of this story.