José Mourinho has revealed that he has yet to consider an official contract renewal offer from Benfica, despite his current deal expiring in June 2027.
The legendary Portuguese coach has postponed all discussions about his future until after the end of the current season, further fueling speculation that he is the leading candidate to replace Álvaro Arbeloa at Real Madrid.
Speculation about his return to the Bernabéu has increased after Mourinho admitted he had ignored a new proposal from Benfica's management.
Despite president Rui Costa's desire to keep the "Special One" in Lisbon, Mourinho says he is only focused on finishing the season.
He explained that all internal negotiations have been suspended until after Benfica's league commitments are completed, starting with the final match against Estoril this weekend.
Speaking ahead of this match, Mourinho confirmed that he has received a renewal offer, but did not want to consider it immediately.
He told Diario AS: "Yes, I received an offer to renew my contract from Benfica on Wednesday. The offer was given to my agent, but I didn't want to see it, know it or analyse it. I will only do it from Sunday, let's say Sunday. Nobody told me there was an offer to show me. Not the president, not any important person at the club. But if they had told me, I would have responded the same way."
Mourinho maintained a humble stance on the size of the club, stressing that a final decision would be made soon.
"Next week will be important for me, for my future and for Benfica as well. When the season ends, Benfica has to start thinking about next season. But, according to the contract and the agreement that I signed when I arrived, we have this period of a few days to see what happens and to make a decision. Benfica is much bigger than me; there is no comparison. It is bigger than everyone – coaches, players, presidents, whoever. Therefore, as far as my personal situation is concerned, there is no reason to worry, because the club is bigger than everyone and there is no need to panic if someone leaves," he said./Express newspaper/
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