Benfica presidential candidate João Diogo Manteigas asserts that manager José Mourinho’s tenure at the club is temporary, fueled by his long-term ambition to coach the Portuguese national team.
Manteigas claimed it is widely known within football circles that Mourinho’s sights are set on the national squad. He also alleged that Mourinho has already engaged in discussions with Pedro Proença, head of the Portuguese professional football league, regarding a potential role with the national team.
The candidate, a 42-year-old lawyer, pointed to Mourinho’s current contract with Benfica as evidence. Mourinho, who replaced Bruno Lage a little over a month ago, signed for two seasons, but the agreement includes a clause allowing either party to terminate it at the end of the current season.
This clause suggests Mourinho does not intend to commit to Benfica for an extended period, Manteigas argued in an interview with the Lusa news agency.
Despite this perceived short-term outlook, Manteigas praised Mourinho’s capabilities. He called the manager “a winner” and stated that “if there is anyone capable of making Benfica champion this year, it’s José Mourinho.” He believes Mourinho’s vast experience would enable him to overcome obstacles more quickly than other coaches.
If elected president, Manteigas vowed to provide Mourinho with “everything he needs to win this year.” However, he also acknowledged the need to understand Mourinho’s current mindset and whether he “identifies with the current board or not.”
Manteigas is one of several candidates competing in Benfica’s presidential election, scheduled for October 25. Other contenders include current president Rui Costa and former president Luís Filipe Vieira, alongside João Noronha Lopes, Martim Mayer, and Cristóvão Carvalho.
Should no candidate secure more than 50% of the vote, a run-off election between the top two contenders will be held two weeks later, on November 8.