Mourinho promises no sentiment in return to Stamford Bridge with Benfica

Jose Mourinho is set to return to Stamford Bridge tonight, but the “Special One” has made it clear: sentiment won’t influence his approach when Benfica face Chelsea in a high-stakes Champions League clash.

The Portuguese manager, who enjoyed two trophy-laden spells with the west London club, will step into the away dugout as his side prepares to take on Enzo Maresca’s Blues in the group stage.

Mourinho first made his mark at Chelsea between 2004 and 2007, guiding the club to six major honours, including two Premier League titles and an FA Cup. Following successful periods with Inter Milan and Real Madrid, he returned to Chelsea in 2013, claiming another league title before departing in 2015.

Despite admitting that Chelsea will always feel like “home,” Mourinho insists he will set aside emotions to focus on leading Benfica to victory. Fans can expect the tactical mastery that has defined his career, but none of the sentiment that accompanies a homecoming.