Mourinho: "I want to eliminate Real from the Champions League"
Jose Mourinho, the renowned coach currently managing Lisbon's "Benfica" team, is in the spotlight ahead of the Champions League playoff stage match against his former team — Madrid's "Real" club. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
Mourinho openly shared his thoughts about this match, not hiding his emotions towards his former team. It is worth recalling that in the last round of the group stage, "Benfica" defeated "Real" 4:2.
However, this upcoming game is not just about three points — it will decide the playoff spot, whether the team stays in the tournament or gets eliminated. Mourinho described this match not only as a test of sporting skill but also a test of character.
In an interview before the game, Mourinho recalled his time at "Real," emphasizing that he did everything possible for the club. At the same time, he attracted attention with one sentence: "In the current situation, I really want to eliminate 'Real' from the Champions League." These words further increased interest in the match.
Although Mourinho did not deny his respect for his former club, he stated that the result on the football field comes first. In the words of fans, he expressed the sentiment: "Sentimentality comes later, now it's playoff time."
Additionally, Mourinho spoke warmly about his former protégé, currently managing "Real," Alvaro Arbeloa. He wished Arbeloa success in the domestic championship and hoped he would leave a lasting mark at the club for many years.
"He is a wonderful person and deserves it," said Mourinho, which was a great compliment from mentor to pupil. The coach also briefly touched on his future plans.
He acknowledged that there is a clause in his contract with "Benfica" regarding departure, but emphasized that rumors about returning to Madrid should not be stirred up. According to him, the main goal now is not rumors but winning the game.
Interestingly, during Mourinho's tenure, Arbeloa was one of his most trusted players. Now they face each other as coaches in Europe's most prestigious competition.
These events remind football fans of a plot worthy of a series: yesterday's trust — today's rivalry. Now the main question is: will Mourinho's passion for victory prevail, or will "Real's" usual playoff experience come into play again?
One thing is certain — this game can offer spectators great emotions and many goals.
