Jose Mourinho is preparing for an emotional return to Stamford Bridge as his Benfica side gear up to face Chelsea in the Champions League. The Portuguese manager, who famously led the Blues to three Premier League titles across two spells, is already drawing headlines ahead of Tuesday’s clash—not just for his reunion with his former club, but also for his glowing admiration of one Chelsea star.
Mourinho praises Pedro Neto as “one of the best”
In his pre-match press conference, Mourinho admitted he “would love” to have Pedro Neto at Benfica, singling out the winger as one of the most dangerous players in Europe right now.
“Neto is one of the best wingers in the world. Enzo Maresca is privileged because he has three, four players of a similar profile. Of course, I would love to have Pedro Neto at Benfica, but he's playing in a different reality with a different finances,” Jose Mourinho said.
His comments add spice to an already high-stakes fixture, as Chelsea look to continue their European campaign under Enzo Maresca while Benfica chase momentum under their newly-appointed manager.
Neto responds with admiration
The admiration is mutual, with Pedro Neto returning the compliment when asked about Mourinho. The Portuguese winger spoke highly of the legendary coach, placing him among the greatest figures in his nation’s footballing history.
“You cannot have a divided opinion on him (Mourinho). What he did for Portugal, what he did for Portuguese people, what he has won. People in Portugal respect him a lot and know the value that he has. Benfica hired him for that reason. He is one of the biggest names in Portugal with [Cristiano] Ronaldo and [Luis] Figo. It would be a privilege to be managed by Jose Mourinho, who wouldn't want to be managed by him?” Neto told reporters.
Chelsea star rising in stature
Pedro Neto’s trajectory has been remarkable since his move to England in 2019. After making his mark at Wolves with 14 goals across 135 appearances, he sealed a £54 million switch to Chelsea in 2024. His debut season at Stamford Bridge showcased his versatility and consistency, as he notched nine goals in 51 appearances while helping the Blues lift both the UEFA Conference League and the inaugural FIFA Club World Cup.
Jose Mourinho’s fresh start at Benfica
For Jose Mourinho, this fixture marks a crucial test early in his Benfica tenure. Since his return to the club earlier this month, the 62-year-old has overseen two wins and a draw in the league. He stepped in after Bruno Lage’s dismissal, following a costly collapse against Qarabag in Benfica’s Champions League opener.
Now, the veteran coach’s Stamford Bridge reunion promises not only a nostalgic backdrop but also a narrative fueled by respect, admiration, and the possibility of what could have been if Pedro Neto ever donned Benfica colors under Mourinho.