The two Portuguese coaches have been linked with the vacant Benfica job. (Photo by Michael Regan/Getty Images)
Benfica are closing in on a deal to reappoint Jose Mourinho in the aftermath of their shock Champions League defeat to Qarabag.
Their European opener got off to an ideal start when they held a two-goal lead by just the 16th minute on their home turf. Yet, by the 86th, they had just conceded a third goal to round off a 3-2 loss.
Ruben Amorim linked with Portugal return just 10 months after Sporting Lisbon exit
The result spelt the end of Bruno Lage’s tenure at the Estadio da Luz, which had been anticipated in recent days – so much so that Ruben Amorim had been tipped for a surprise return to his native Portugal to succeed his compatriot.
It was reported after Manchester United’s defeat at the Etihad last Sunday that Amorim could well be offered an exit route from his struggles in England.
Joao Noronha Lopes, the leading candidate to win Benfica’s presidential election, was in attendance at the Manchester derby and was thought to be spearheading a case to bring Amorim back to his former side.
Mourinho now favourite to succeed Lage
However, now keen to appoint a quick replacement, Benfica have turned their attention to a former flame in the form of Mourinho.
The former Red Devils and Chelsea boss was relieved of his duties by Fenerbahce when the Turkish outfit were knocked out of the Champions League play-offs in late August.
He is keen to return to coaching as swiftly as possible, so he has now opened the door to another venture in his homeland.
Fabrizio Romano confirmed this morning that ‘advanced talks’ are underway between all parties to negotiate an agreement that sees the 62-year-old back in the dugout in Lisbon by the end of the week.
