Mourinho Achieves Unbeaten League Season with Benfica but Misses Title

Jose Mourinho has completed a remarkable unbeaten league season with Benfica, guiding the Portuguese giants through 34 Primeira Liga matches without a single defeat. However, despite this impressive record of 23 wins and 11 draws, Benfica could only secure a third-place finish, accumulating 80 points. This outcome places them eight points adrift of champions Porto and two points behind second-placed Sporting CP.

The final match of the campaign saw Benfica defeat Estoril 3-1, a victory that might mark Mourinho's last game in charge of the Lisbon club. Reports indicate that the 63-year-old manager is in advanced negotiations to return to Real Madrid, 13 years after his initial successful spell at the Bernabeu. Florentino Perez, Real Madrid's president, is reportedly keen to bring Mourinho back to the Spanish capital.

Unbeaten, Yet Trophyless

This unique scenario sees Benfica join a short list of European clubs this century that have completed an entire league season without losing but failed to win the title. FC Sheriff in Moldova (2024-25 season) and Serbian side Red Star Belgrade (2007-08 season) are the only other teams to have experienced this particular fate. For Benfica, it echoes a past disappointment: in the 1977-78 season, they also went unbeaten but were pipped to the title by Porto on goal difference.

Mourinho took over at Benfica last September on a two-year contract. His tenure, while demonstrating defensive solidity and consistency, ultimately fell short of securing silverware in the league, despite the undefeated streak. This situation highlights the competitive nature of the Portuguese top flight, where even perfection in terms of avoiding defeat does not guarantee the ultimate prize.

Key facts

Real Madrid Speculation

The news of Mourinho's potential return to Real Madrid has dominated headlines, particularly in Spain. His previous stint at the Bernabeu from 2010 to 2013 saw him win La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Supercopa de España. The prospect of his return has generated considerable discussion among fans and pundits, with some noting his "iron fist" approach could be exactly what a "broken team" might need. The move would represent a significant shift in the European managerial landscape.

Impact on European Football

Mourinho's situation at Benfica, while domestically focused, has broader implications for European football. An unbeaten season without a title is a rare occurrence, drawing attention to the fine margins that define success at the highest level. Should he move to Real Madrid, it would signal a major managerial appointment at one of Europe's most prominent clubs, potentially influencing transfer markets and tactical trends across the continent. His departure from Benfica would also leave a significant void for the Portuguese club to fill as they look to build on their recent league performance.

Fuente: BBC Sport Football RSS https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/cn0p985n5y7o?atmedium=RSS&atcampaign=rss