Jose Mourinho reportedly wanted 'to attend Chelsea games' before his Benfica appointment last week, but the Blues have no plans to offer a homecoming welcome to 'Judas' for their Champions League tie next week. Fresh from his abrupt sacking at Fenerbahce after failing to secure Europe’s top table through qualification, the 61-year-old is once again prowling touchlines where he believes he belongs.
A Chelsea return no one planned for
According to if Mourinho wasn't walking out to the away dugout at Stamford Bridge next Tuesday, he might have been sat in the stands. Despite years of animosity since leaving Chelsea, his Belgravia home in west London remains his family’s base, and insiders reveal he had plans to attend games this season as a spectator.
AdvertisementAFPNo special plans for the 'Special One'
But Chelsea have no intention of rolling out any red carpet when his new Benfica side come to town. There will be no grand gestures, no official tributes, and certainly no welcome party for a man who split opinion as fiercely as he won trophies.
No love lost with Stamford Bridge faithful
Mourinho has returned to the Bridge before, with Manchester United and Tottenham, and those visits left scars. The infamous 2017 clash as Red Devils boss saw a section of younger Chelsea fans chanting 'Judas' at the man who delivered them three Premier League titles. Never one to back down, Mourinho reminded them with three raised fingers how many league crowns he alone had secured for the club.
AFPAnother fiery night under the lights?
Mourinho and his new Benfica side will head to Chelsea for their Champions League encounter next Tuesday, marking the 'Special One's first return to Stamford Bridge since 2020 when he was manager of Spurs.