Which person says no to Benfica? - Mourinho arrives for negotiations
The veteran manager states he is close to being appointed the Lisbon-based club manager after landing in Lisbon for discussions with the Primeira Liga club.
Mourinho is set to replace the former coach, who was dismissed following the midweek Champions League home defeat against the Azerbaijani side.
The 62-year-old has only been out of work for less than a month after being released by Fenerbahce.
"The club officially asked me if I was keen. Which manager says no to such an opportunity? Not me," he told the media after landing in Lisbon. "When I was offered the opportunity to coach Benfica, I didn't hesitate to say that I'm interested, that I'd want to."
Mourinho began his coaching career with Benfica in 2000 but managed only 10 games and departed after a disagreement with the club president.
He then rose to prominence with Porto between 2002 and 2004, winning six titles - including the UCL in the 2003-2004 season.
Since leaving his native country in 2004, Mourinho has managed the Blues, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, United, Tottenham Hotspur, AS Roma and the Turkish club.
He left the Istanbul side on August 29, two days after they were knocked out from the UCL qualifiers by Benfica.
Should they appoint him, he would face Chelsea in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on September 30.
The team also visit Newcastle United and host the Spanish giants later in the group stage of the competition.
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