Another setback for Mourinho – confrontation with the fans

Alarm bells are ringing around Benfica. One of Portugal’s most storied clubs is going through a turbulent spell, and the patience of parts of the fanbase is wearing thin — with head coach Jose Mourinho firmly in the spotlight.

Discontent boiled over this week when Benfica ultras turned up at the club’s training complex in Seixal, seeking direct answers from the hierarchy and from Mourinho himself. The 62-year-old returned home in September, taking over after his stint at Fenerbahce with the clear mission of restoring Benfica to the top. So far, that revival has failed to materialize.

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On paper, the picture isn’t disastrous: Benfica are still unbeaten in the league. But reality bites harder. They currently sit third, already seven points adrift of leaders Porto despite having played an extra match. Add to that a worrying Champions League situation — elimination before the playoff round is a real possibility — and a Portuguese Cup exit at the quarterfinal stage, and frustration among supporters has become unavoidable.

According to Correio da Manha, roughly 200 fans gathered at Seixal demanding talks with club officials. Mourinho, sporting director Simao Sabrosa and captain Nicolas Otamendi were all expected to face questions. At first, only four supporters were permitted inside, but the group insisted on broader access. Police were called in as a precaution, though the situation remained calm. After assurances of peaceful conduct, authorities allowed the fans onto the premises.

Despite growing pressure from the terraces, Benfica president Rui Costa has publicly closed the door on any immediate coaching change. Asked whether Mourinho’s position was under threat, his response was unequivocal: “No. This is a difficult season, but changing the coach is not an option.”

On the pitch, Benfica have at least offered a brief reminder of their potential, easing past Estrela da Amadora 4–0 in Sunday’s league match. But the real test now looms on the European stage — a Champions League clash against none other than Real Madrid, another former club of Mourinho’s. Benfica must win and rely on favorable results elsewhere to keep their hopes alive.

Mourinho remains under contract until 2027, though a clause allows for a possible parting of ways at the end of the season. For now, however, the Special One stays put — with scrutiny intensifying and the next few weeks likely to define his second chapter in Lisbon.