Liga Portugal news

Jose Mourinho has sent shockwaves through Lisbon by refusing to guarantee his stay at Benfica beyond the current season. Speaking ahead of a massive derby clash against Sporting CP, the legendary manager suggested that his future is not entirely in his own hands as speculation over a return to the elite continues to mount.

Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand aimed a pointed dig at Arsenal's tactical approach following his side's Champions League quarter-final exit at the Emirates Stadium. The Danish midfielder expressed his frustration with the lack of rhythm in the contest, suggesting that the Gunners' repetitive set-piece delays resulted in a boring spectacle.

Jose Mourinho could be set for a sensational return to the Premier League as Newcastle United's hierarchy consider a change in the dugout. The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager is reportedly a lead candidate for the Magpies should they part ways with Eddie Howe this summer.

Porto president Andre Villas-Boas and Benfica head coach Jose Mourinho continue to communicate despite leading rival clubs. While battling for the league title, the former colleagues, who achieved massive European success together, maintain a strong friendship. Villas-Boas recently detailed their enduring mutual respect amidst this fierce rivalry.

Benfica striker Vangelis Pavlidis has heaped praise on Jose Mourinho, insisting that the legendary tactician is still the finest manager in the world. Following a prolific season under the Portuguese's guidance in Lisbon, the Greece international highlighted Mourinho's unique passion for the game and his unparalleled ability to manage elite talent at the highest level.

Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund are close to securing the transfer of FC Famalicao centre-back Ibrahima Ba, according to a Portuguese media report.

Carlo Ancelotti has refused to rule out a fairytale return to the Brazil national team for veteran defender Thiago Silva ahead of the upcoming World Cup. Despite the centre-back now being 41 years old, the Italian tactician believes quality and experience far outweigh any numbers found on a passport.

How so?

Manchester City are pushing to sign Sporting CP captain Morten Hjulmand in the summer transfer window. The Premier League giants have already made informal contact with the Portuguese club as sporting director Hugo Viana looks to reunite with the Danish midfielder.

Napoli have identified Benfica midfielder Richard Rios as their top target for the summer transfer window and have already opened talks over a potential €30 million move. Sporting director Giovanni Manna is leading negotiations as the Serie A side attempt to strengthen their midfield ahead of next season.

Nottingham Forest were gifted a way back into their Europa League quarter-final first leg clash against Porto as Martim Fernandes scored an astonishing own goal from 40 yards out. In one of the most inexplicable moments in the competition's history, the Premier League side benefitted from a catastrophic defensive mix-up at the Estadio do Dragao.

Benfica have moved swiftly to quash mounting speculation surrounding the future of head coach Jose Mourinho. Following a disappointing draw that dealt a heavy blow to their title aspirations, both the club hierarchy and the two-time Champions League winner have strongly reaffirmed their commitment, insisting the 63-year-old remains firmly at the helm.