Mourinho's Benfica Exit Confirmed Regardless of Perez's Election Result

Benfica president Rui Costa disclosed that Jose Mourinho's exit from the club was effectively settled before the outcome of the Real Madrid presidential election was known. Costa stated that Mourinho had been open about Real Madrid's interest and that a mutual agreement ensured the coach would depart regardless of whether Florentino Perez won the vote.

Mourinho's Departure from Benfica

Costa publicly addressed the situation surrounding Mourinho's departure, emphasizing that the move to Real Madrid was unavoidable. He explained that Mourinho had expressed his intention to accept Madrid’s offer if Perez secured the presidency. However, Costa also confirmed that even if Perez had lost, Mourinho still would have left Benfica.

The Role of Florentino Perez's Election

Contrary to the common belief that Mourinho's future depended on Perez winning the Bernabeu presidency, Costa asserted that the coach was already set to leave Benfica. When asked whether Mourinho would have remained at Benfica if Perez had not won, Costa responded candidly.

"Benfica only had to wait for the outcome of the Real Madrid election process because of what I just said. He [Mourinho] was assumed that he would be Real Madrid's coach if Florentino won the elections," Costa said during a press conference. He added, "[Mourinho] would no longer be Benfica's coach given all the circumstances, in an agreement reached amicably between the parties. He would leave at this moment."

Details Behind the Agreement

Costa revealed that Benfica had tried to secure Mourinho’s long-term commitment before Real Madrid expressed interest. He dismissed any notion of feeling betrayed by Mourinho’s decision to leave.

"We made the offer when we felt it was appropriate," Costa stated. "We talked over time, and Mourinho knew perfectly well that he was the coach I wanted for next season. He had a contract with Benfica, and we understood that at the end of the season we would renew that contract and not let him start his final year with only one year left on his contract. Jose Mourinho's choice was different. Real Madrid came along and took another option. Disappointed? No, I have to respect it. It was unforeseen for us, I don't hide it, but I have to respect it and move on."

Benfica's Future Plans Post-Mourinho

Following Mourinho’s confirmed departure, Benfica is focusing on preparations for the upcoming season with Marco Silva appointed as the new head coach. Meanwhile, Mourinho is set to begin his second tenure at Real Madrid, tasked with reviving the club’s success after two seasons without trophies.