The Special One's ultimate destiny seems clearer than ever: leading his nation on the biggest stage. Whispers are turning into strong reports that Jose Mourinho is being lined up for the Portugal national team managerial role following the 2026 World Cup.
Key Points:
- Jose Mourinho is reportedly eyed by the FPF for the Portugal national team job after the 2026 World Cup.
- This potential move could see Mourinho depart Benfica despite a two-year deal.
- Former Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim is a leading candidate to replace him at Benfica.
- Mourinho has openly expressed his long-standing ambition to coach Portugal in a major tournament.
The Call of the Nation: Portugal Beckons Mourinho
The whispers are growing louder. Jose Mourinho, currently at the helm of Benfica, is being strongly tipped to take over the Portugal national team after the 2026 World Cup. ESPN reports that the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) is eager to secure the legendary manager once current boss Roberto Martinez's contract concludes.
This isn't a new ambition for Mourinho. He openly declared his desire to coach his homeland back in January last year while managing Fenerbahce. "I want to play a European Championship or a World Cup and unite a country around a team," he stated, emphasizing the profound connection he feels to the sport's global spectacles.
He later clarified in August that leading Portugal remains his top priority for international management, even while acknowledging potential future stints with nations like Brazil, England, or Italy due to personal and professional ties. It’s clear the allure of the Seleção is potent for the Special One.
Benfica's Rollercoaster Ride: A Mixed Bag for the Boss
Mourinho's return to Benfica in September was met with high expectations, but his second spell has delivered a mixed bag of results. Domestically, the team has stumbled, exiting both cup competitions and now trailing Liga Portugal leaders FC Porto by a significant seven points, leading to some heated fan confrontations.
However, the Champions League narrative has been nothing short of miraculous. Mourinho masterminded a stunning comeback, guiding Benfica to the knockout stage playoffs. Their dramatic 4-2 victory over his former club Real Madrid, sealed by goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin's incredible eighth-minute stoppage-time goal, was a stark reminder of his tactical genius.
The Successor Spotlight: Amorim's Potential Homecoming
Should Mourinho answer the national call, the void at Benfica could swiftly be filled by a familiar face. Ruben Amorim, recently parted ways with Manchester United and a revered coach in Portugal, is the frontrunner. His deep ties to Benfica, having spent nine years there as a player, make him a compelling candidate for a coaching homecoming.
Amorim's impressive, trophy-laden tenure at Sporting CP further solidifies his credentials, proving his ability to lead a top Portuguese club to success. The prospect of him taking over injects another layer of intrigue into this high-stakes managerial merry-go-round.
Dismissing Madrid: A Focus on the Present (and Portugal)
Adding to the managerial melodrama, Mourinho has also been linked with a sensational return to Real Madrid, a prospect reportedly championed by club president Florentino Perez. However, Mourinho was quick to dismiss these rumors, famously stating he doesn't "watch soap operas."
Interestingly, Benfica is set to face Real Madrid in the Champions League playoffs, with the first leg in Lisbon on February 17. Before that massive clash, Benfica must navigate a Liga Portugal trip to Santa Clara this Friday, keeping Mourinho focused on the immediate challenges, even as his future beckons from the international stage.
