Benfica president Rui Costa confirmed that José Mourinho's departure was inevitable regardless of Sunday's Real Madrid presidential election outcome. Even if Florentino Pérez had lost to his challenger, Mourinho would have exited Benfica by mutual agreement. The Portuguese manager's exit follows Real Madrid's €15 million compensation payment to secure his services for a second spell.

Costa explained that Mourinho had a contract with Benfica for another season and received a renewal offer before Real Madrid's approach materialized. "We made the offer when we felt the time was right," Costa stated, noting that both parties understood they would extend the deal rather than let him enter his final year. Despite the disappointment, Benfica respected Mourinho's career decision and maintained a gentlemen's agreement ensuring no disadvantage to the club.

Mourinho returns to Real Madrid after previously winning LaLiga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Supercup titles during his 2010-2013 tenure. His brief stint at Benfica saw the team finish third in the league despite remaining unbeaten, missing out on Champions League qualification. The 62-year-old joined Benfica in October after his dismissal from Fenerbahce.

Benfica moved quickly to appoint Marco Silva as Mourinho's successor, with Costa praising the former Fulham coach as "at the perfect stage of his career" for the role. Benfica's proactive approach in considering every scenario allowed them to transition smoothly while Real Madrid secures one of football's most decorated managers.