On Tuesday night, Stamford Bridge will host an emotional reunion. Benfica coach Jose Mourinho returns to the ground where he forged one of the most successful eras in Chelsea history. Between 2004 and 2007, the Portuguese tactician led the Blues to three Premier League titles and an FA Cup, laying the foundations for the club's modern identity.
At Monday's pre-match press conference, Mourinho smiled as he declared, "Of course I will always be a blue. I'm part of their history and they are part of my history." Yet he was clear about his focus: "Now I am in Benfica and I am very, very happy. Big responsibility–even for a guy with so many years of football. But to coach Benfica is a huge responsibility. You know how I am. I just love it. Let's go tomorrow."
Since signing a two-year contract in mid-September, Mourinho's Benfica have played three matches, posting two wins and one draw. Their solid start has fans and analysts tracking every tactical tweak as he adapts to a new league and club culture.
Chelsea and Benfica share a brief Champions League history: the English side won both quarterfinal legs against Mourinho's team in the 2011-12 season. This meeting offers a fresh chapter–an intersection of past and present on one of European football's grandest stages.
As matchday approaches, all eyes will be on Mourinho's special connection to this stadium and how it shapes the battle on the pitch. One thing is certain: whether wearing red or blue, his influence on Stamford Bridge endures.
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Jose Mourunho back at Stamford Bridge, says he will always be a blue
cgtn.com
