Transfers
European Giants Plot Shock Ruben Amorim Swoop If Mourinho Takes Portugal Job
Portuguese football could be heading for a seismic shake-up.
Reports suggest Benfica are preparing a sensational move for Ruben Amorim — but only if Jose Mourinho departs to take charge of Portugal’s national team.
The potential managerial domino effect has set Lisbon buzzing, with a scenario that could completely reshape the balance of power in Portuguese football.
Mourinho’s Portugal Dream
Jose Mourinho has long expressed his desire to coach the Portuguese national team.
With Roberto Martinez’s contract set to expire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the timing could finally align for the “Special One” to step into the international spotlight.
Mourinho has previously admitted:
“My destiny is to play in a World Cup with the Portuguese national team… my first international experience has to be with Portugal.”
Should the Portuguese Football Federation move for him post-World Cup, Benfica may be forced into action.
Benfica’s Bold Backup Plan
According to emerging reports, Benfica have identified Ruben Amorim as their top target if Mourinho departs.
It would be a dramatic twist.
Amorim:
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Ended Sporting CP’s 19-year title drought in 2021
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Became a Lisbon derby antagonist for Benfica fans
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Previously spent nine years as a Benfica player
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Has deep personal ties to the club
Despite his Sporting legacy, Amorim’s Benfica roots run deep — and club president Rui Costa is reportedly weighing the possibility of bringing him home.
Amorim’s Career At A Crossroads
The 41-year-old coach recently endured a turbulent spell at Manchester United, where he was dismissed after a difficult 14-month tenure.
A return to Portugal could offer:
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Familiar surroundings
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A high-profile rebuilding project
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Immediate title contention
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A chance to rewrite his Lisbon narrative
However, the emotional element cannot be ignored. Benfica supporters remain divided — torn between their memories of him as a player and his title-winning heroics at rivals Sporting.
A Transition Hinged On The FPF
The entire scenario depends on one key factor: whether the Portuguese Football Federation formally approaches Mourinho after the World Cup.
Benfica reportedly hold an exit clause in Mourinho’s contract, meaning a smooth transition is possible. But no official move has yet materialized.
If the switch happens, Portuguese football could witness:
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Mourinho leading the Selecao on the global stage
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Amorim returning to Benfica in one of the boldest managerial swaps in recent memory
A Rivalry Reignited
Few managerial moves would carry more drama.
Mourinho’s global stature and tactical pedigree contrasted with Amorim’s modern, high-intensity philosophy could redefine the next era of Portuguese dominance.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, all eyes are on Lisbon.
Because if this managerial chess move unfolds, it won’t just be a change in leadership — it could reshape the Portuguese football landscape for years to come.
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