Exclusive: Former Manchester United Boss Ruben Amorim Tipped to Replace José Mourinho at Benfica

Ruben Amorim could make a sensational return to management at the expense of Portuguese compatriot José Mourinho at Benfica, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

Some members of the hierarchy are understood to be keen on Amorim succeeding the self-styled ‘Special One’ who is struggling to revive the fortunes of the Lisbon giants.

Domestically and in Europe, Benfica are misfiring while Amorim, a former player at the Estadio da Luz, understood to be keen to return to work despite his unhappy 14-month stint in charge of Manchester United.

Even his successful career in charge at Benfica’s bitter city rivals, Sporting, where he won two league titles, wouldn’t harm Amorim’s chances of replacing his fellow countryman.

Benfica are unbeaten in the Primeira Liga table but trail 10 points behind leaders Porto. They were also knocked out of the Portuguese Cup by Porto at the quarter-final stage.

In the Champions League, they have mustered only six points from seven games, including last night’s 2-0 defeat at Juventus. 

And Mourinho’s current plight was summed up when Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis slipped and missed a late penalty.

Late last year, sources linked Benfica with a sensational return for João Félix from Saudi Arabia, though those rumours have since quietened.

QUALIFICATION WOES

They have an outside chance of qualifying for the play-off round. But they must beat Real Madrid in next week’s final group game to stand any chance of clawing their way into the top 24.

Mourinho, 62, recently scotched rumours of returning to take charge of Los Blancos in the summer.

And he is only six months into a two-year deal with Benfica where his successful and outstanding managerial career began 26 years ago.

However, with the old Mourinho magic in short supply, Benfica might cut their losses with an outstanding candidate in the wings.

Amorim could recharge his batteries and enjoy a £10 million windfall after his departure from Old Trafford.

But he spent nine years as a player at Benfica before his career was cut short by injury and it is understood would consider going back if the call comes.