Mourinho - Benzema reunion?

According to the French outlet Goal France, Jose Mourinho is working hard to convince Karim Benzema to join Benfica in Lisbon.

Freshly appointed as Benfica’s new head coach, “The Special One” is already shaping the squad in his own image. At the top of his wish list is a proven veteran who can lead by example – and Benzema is seen as the perfect fit. Currently, the 2022 Ballon d’Or winner is under contract with Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia until 2026.

Mourinho and Benzema have a shared history. During the Portuguese manager’s stint at Real Madrid from 2010 to 2013, the French striker blossomed into one of Europe’s most feared goal scorers. Mourinho now believes his former pupil could provide the same spark in Portugal.

Still, the deal won’t come easy. Al-Ittihad considers Benzema one of its key players and is unlikely to let him walk away without a fight. Benfica might need to get creative: either wait until his contract ends in 2026, explore the possibility of a short-term loan this winter, or negotiate a transfer fee in the region of 5–7 million euros. Since Benzema arrived in Saudi Arabia on a free transfer from Real Madrid in 2023, the club could even turn a profit.

Mourinho records a win on his debut for Benfica

Whether the striker himself is ready to return to a higher level of competition remains uncertain. To wear Benfica’s colors, he would need to accept a salary far below what he currently earns in Saudi Arabia.

What is certain, however, is that if Mourinho manages to pull this off, it would be a statement signing – one that would send shockwaves through Portuguese football and beyond.