Real Madrid News
‘Until proven otherwise…’ – Benfica president shuts down talks of Mourinho’s Real Madrid return
Benfica president Rui Costa has publicly addressed the growing speculation linking Jose Mourinho with a sensational return to Real Madrid.
Reports surrounding Mourinho’s future have intensified in recent days, with strong claims suggesting that Real Madrid are pushing hard to bring the experienced manager back to the Santiago Bernabeu.
However, Benfica’s leadership appears unwilling to publicly accept that the coach’s exit is already decided.
What was said?
Speaking to the media, Rui Costa strongly defended Mourinho’s current position at Benfica and insisted that the club still considers him their manager unless proven otherwise.
“Until proven otherwise, Benfica’s manager is José Mourinho,” he said, as per Mundo Deportivo.
Costa also addressed the ongoing uncertainty regarding Mourinho’s future and revealed that conversations about a possible contract renewal remain open.
Expanding on the matter, he said, “Will he accept the contract renewal offer? That is for him to say, as he has already explained and as is obvious.
“As for everything else, if you’ll allow me, I will speak with Benfica’s members this week. I will explain the season to them.”
The Benfica president was also asked about speculation linking Marco Silva as a possible replacement if Mourinho leaves for Madrid.
However, Rui Costa quickly rejected those suggestions, stating, “Obviously not, because Benfica’s manager is Mourinho. Of course, the issue of Marco Silva is not on the table.”
Mourinho’s return appears closer than ever
Despite Benfica’s public position, signs continue pointing towards Mourinho seriously considering a return to Real Madrid.
The Portuguese manager has already accepted the main conditions proposed by the Spanish giants, with expectations growing around a two-year contract running until 2028.
What has made the situation even more interesting is Mourinho’s recent admission that direct talks with Real Madrid are expected soon.
Speaking about the ongoing situation, Mourinho recently revealed, “I will personally speak to Real Madrid next week, and I’ll make my decision then.”
For now, Benfica continue backing Mourinho, but the feeling around the situation is becoming clear that the final decision may arrive very soon, and Real Madrid appear to be winning.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid forward Vinicius Jr. admits finishing problem after another frustrating night vs Elche: ‘Can’t miss that much’
Vinicius Jr.’s difficult start in front of goal continued against Elche, and the Real Madrid forward did not need anyone to tell him he had missed another chance to make the difference.
The Brazilian finished the night without a goal despite having chances to get on the scoresheet, while his teammates could only watch from the bench as opportunities went begging.
Jose Mourinho had already identified the problem before kick-off, bluntly pointing to the issue facing his forward, stating, “He’s missing the goal.”
Vini offered an equally frank assessment afterwards.
Rather than hide from another frustrating evening, he accepted responsibility on social media: “The goals will come back; I can’t miss that much…”
Two chances, no finish for Vinicius
Vinicius had two particularly clear openings against Elche, but neither produced the finish Real Madrid needed from their star forward.
The first arrived when he found himself one-on-one with the opposition goalkeeper.
Instead of finding the net, Vinicius caught the ball with the tip of his foot and sent his effort wide. Arda Guler was available during the move and called for the ball, but Vini backed himself to finish the chance.
He had another opportunity after the interval, this time following an excellent pass from Guler during a quick Real Madrid transition. Again, though, Vinicius could not find the target.
His evening ended in the 68th minute, with Mourinho deciding the Brazilian was tired and turning his attention towards Sunday’s Atletico Madrid derby.
Mourinho has a bigger decision to make
The numbers show why Vinicius’ finishing has become a talking point. He managed five shots against Elche, but only one was on target and none found the net.
After seven appearances this season, the Brazilian has scored just once, which is a striking return for a player Real Madrid rely upon to provide a major share of their attacking threat.
Ultimately, though, Real Madrid found another route to victory, with Arda Guler, Kylian Mbappe and Carlos Espi providing the goals in the 3-2 comeback.
