Jose Mourinho made a significant return to the Santiago Bernabéu as Real Madrid faced Benfica in the UEFA Champions League. This match marked his first visit since his controversial tenure as Madrid’s coach from 2010 to 2013. The circumstances surrounding this reunion were dramatic, following Mourinho’s sending-off during the first leg of the knockout phase play-off, where Benfica lost 1-0. Post-match, he stirred headlines with his comments regarding alleged racist incidents involving Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. and Benfica’s Gianluca Prestianni.
Mourinho’s Comments and Ongoing Investigation
Following the first leg, Mourinho voiced his frustrations over the alleged racist abuse aimed at Vinicius Jr., arguing that it was unjust to imply that Benfica harbored such sentiments. He stated, “I told him that when you score a goal like that, you just celebrate and walk back.” Currently, UEFA is investigating these claims, while Prestianni—a player provisionally suspended—has denied the accusations.
Mourinho’s Turbulent Tenure at Real Madrid
Mourinho’s time at Real Madrid is remembered as tumultuous and intense. Describing it recently as “tough, intense, almost violent,” he reflected on relationships that fractured with players like Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos. His controversial style generated tension within the club and with fans, yet he undeniably instilled a competitive spirit.
Champions League Journey and Confrontational Approach
When Mourinho took the reins in 2010, he was hailed as one of the top managers worldwide. His previous success at Inter Milan included winning the Champions League, which raised expectations significantly. Real Madrid started strong in La Liga, collecting an impressive 32 points from the first 12 games, but defeat in a Clasico against Barcelona exposed early tensions.
Mourinho did not shy away from controversy; he famously suggested that he needed stronger support in the transfer market to challenge effectively. His abrasive remarks extended to opposition managers and referees, and his confrontations in the media were frequent.
Issues with Players and Key Matches
- 2010 Clasico Setback: A stunning 5-0 defeat to Barcelona fueled Mourinho’s quest for control within the club.
- Champions League Challenges: Madrid exited the competition after heartbreaking losses, including the infamous semi-final against Bayern Munich, which pushed Mourinho to demand more transfers.
- Final Season Struggles: In 2012-13, poor performances led to public disputes with players, culminating in conflicts over team selections and roles.
Mourinho’s Departure and Legacy
Despite several controversies and a lack of trophies during his final season, Mourinho left Real Madrid under mutual agreement with club president Florentino Pérez. Mourinho’s legacy is contentious; he is credited with shaping a more competitive team that later thrived under different coaches, including Carlo Ancelotti and Zinedine Zidane.
As Mourinho returned to Real Madrid, he acknowledged the challenges faced during his tenure but expressed a belief that those difficulties were essential for eventual success. Although speculation about a potential return as a coach remains, the latest events appear to have complicated his relationship with the club significantly.
