Jose Mourinho’s return to Chelsea, now as Benfica manager, brings back memories of the man who once reshaped English football. While the “Special One” may not hold the same aura as during his prime, his presence at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday ahead of Benfica’s Champions League clash with his former club underscores his enduring influence in the sport.
A Possible Curtain Call
Mourinho, 62, has defied expectations throughout his career, landing big managerial roles even after stints that seemed to diminish his standing. His recent surprise move to Benfica, ahead of what many anticipated would be a transition to managing Portugal after the 2026 World Cup, makes this Champions League fixture feel like a final curtain call for the Stamford Bridge faithful who once adored him.
Though Mourinho first made his name at FC Porto with six major trophies, including the Champions League, it was at Chelsea that he famously dubbed himself the “Special One,” capturing global attention. Back then, Chelsea were challenging the dominance of Arsène Wenger’s Arsenal and Sir Alex Ferguson’s Manchester United, and Mourinho’s blend of tactical discipline, man-management, and confidence altered the Premier League landscape permanently.
From Glory to Controversy
Since leaving Real Madrid in 2013, Mourinho’s career has had its ups and downs. His stints at Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Fenerbahce were marked by mixed success, and his fiery persona often created tension with high-profile players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Sergio Ramos, and Paul Pogba. Yet, his early achievements—17 major trophies including two Champions League titles—remain unmatched by many of his contemporaries.
Chelsea fans, in particular, remember the powerhouse teams of 2004-2007 and 2013-2015, featuring Petr Cech, John Terry, Frank Lampard, and Didier Drogba. Those sides, built with the support of Roman Abramovich’s financial backing, captured consecutive Premier League titles and reshaped English football with their strength, resilience, and tactical innovations.
Praise from Former Players
Former Chelsea captain John Terry hailed Mourinho as “the very best I have ever worked with,” while Frank Lampard highlighted the meticulous detail and structure Mourinho brought to training sessions. “Every drill had a purpose, and every player knew exactly what was expected,” Lampard said, noting how Mourinho’s methods set new standards for professionalism in the Premier League.
Even now, Mourinho commands respect from players. At a press conference ahead of Tuesday’s game, he praised Benfica winger Pedro Neto as “one of the best wingers in the world,” while Neto reciprocated, calling Mourinho “one of the biggest names in Portuguese football” and a privilege to work under.
Legacy and Reflection
Despite the controversies and clashes that marked his later career, Mourinho’s return to Stamford Bridge serves as a reminder of his lasting impact on football. His tactical innovations, dominance in the Premier League, and ability to shape players’ careers ensure that, for Chelsea fans, the “Special One” will always have a special place in the club’s history.
As Benfica face Chelsea, the occasion is more than a Champions League match—it’s a moment to reflect on the enduring legacy of a manager who changed football both on and off the pitch.
