Overview
- Asked about a comeback to the Bernabéu, the Benfica coach rejected the speculation, saying, “Don’t count on me for soap operas.”
- Mourinho spoke after Benfica’s win at Rio Ave and remains under contract with the Portuguese club through 2027 following his September appointment.
- Real Madrid parted ways with Xabi Alonso last week and promoted reserve-team coach Álvaro Arbeloa to lead the first team on an interim basis.
- Scrutiny of the interim setup has intensified after a Copa del Rey upset against Albacete and jeers with white handkerchiefs during a league win over Levante.
- Benfica visit Juventus in the Champions League on Wednesday before hosting Real Madrid on January 28, a meeting that keeps the managerial question in focus.