José Mourinho's return to haunt Real Madrid in the Champions League has added a dramatic subplot to the playoff tie against Benfica. The Portuguese coach, who spent three tumultuous years at the Bernabéu from 2010-13, orchestrated a stunning 4-2 victory over Madrid in the league phase last month, with goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin's stoppage-time header securing Benfica's playoff spot.

Mourinho's relationship with Madrid deteriorated during his tenure, marked by clashes with senior players like Iker Casillas and Sergio Ramos, and a bruising rivalry with Pep Guardiola's Barcelona. Since leaving the Spanish capital, the self-proclaimed 'Special One' has won major trophies at Chelsea, Manchester United, and Roma, but his aura of invincibility has faded. His time at Madrid left permanent scars, transforming him from a serial winner into a more abrasive figure in dressing rooms and boardrooms.

With Mourinho tipped to succeed Roberto Martínez as Portugal coach after the 2026 World Cup, this Champions League tie could be his last in the competition. The two-legged playoff represents a fitting stage for the 63-year-old to exact revenge on the club that 'broke' him. Madrid must be wary of Mourinho's ability to write his own headlines, especially in high-stakes knockout football. The second leg at the Bernabéu next week will be Mourinho's first return to the stadium as a coach since his departure in 2013, adding emotional weight to an already combustible encounter.