Overview

• Rui Costa confirmed Lage’s exit hours after a 3-2 home defeat to Qarabağ in the Champions League, a match Benfica led 2-0.
• Multiple outlets including CNN Portugal, RTP and Fabrizio Romano report advanced talks and an agreement in principle with José Mourinho.
• Costa said the replacement is expected to be in place for Saturday’s league game at Vila das Aves.
• Mourinho, 62, is available after leaving Fenerbahçe in August following elimination by Benfica in Champions League qualifying.
• If appointed, Mourinho would return to the club where he began his managerial career in 2000 and could face Chelsea on September 30.