Speaking ahead of the season’s final league fixture, the 63-year-old tactician stated that while a formal proposal was presented to his representatives on Wednesday, he has chosen to postpone any discussion regarding his future until the current campaign concludes.

This development comes at a pivotal moment for the Lisbon-based side, who are currently embroiled in a tense battle for Champions League qualification.

Jose Mourinho guided the team through a mixed season that saw them exit domestic cup competitions but achieve a remarkable run in Europe, including a dramatic victory over Real Madrid earlier in the year.

Despite the club’s desire for stability, the manager insisted that his focus must remain entirely on the upcoming match against Estoril Praia.

Speculation regarding a sensational return to Real Madrid has intensified in recent weeks, with reports suggesting that the Spanish giants are seeking a proven leader to oversee a significant squad reset this summer.

Although Jose Mourinho has publicly dismissed “soap opera” rumours in the past, he admitted to reporters that a definitive decision on his next career move will be made next week.

He maintained that he has not yet analysed the terms of the Benfica offer, preferring to wait until Sunday evening to begin evaluations.

The stakes for the Portuguese club remain high as they travel to the Estádio António Coimbra da Mota this weekend.

Benfica currently sits in third place in the Primeira Liga, trailing rivals Sporting CP by two points; a victory against Estoril is essential to keep their hopes of a top-two finish and guaranteed Champions League football alive.

The manager’s current contract, signed in September 2025, reportedly contains a release clause of €3 million that could be triggered within ten days of the season’s end.

This narrow window has placed additional pressure on the Benfica hierarchy, led by President Rui Costa, to secure the manager’s commitment before international suitors can formalize their interest.

As the European football season nears its climax, the future of one of the game’s most decorated coaches remains the central talking point in both Lisbon and Madrid.

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Whether the veteran strategist chooses to continue his project in Portugal or return to the Santiago Bernabéu, the outcome of Sunday’s fixture will likely serve as the final chapter of his current tenure at the Estádio da Luz.