SC Heerenveen Overview

Rui Costa has revealed that Jose Mourinho's departure from Benfica was effectively decided before the Real Madrid presidential election outcome was known. The Benfica president said Mourinho had been transparent about Los Blancos' interest and confirmed a mutual agreement would have seen the coach leave even if Florentino Perez had not won the vote.

Jose Mourinho is flying to Spain this Wednesday afternoon to complete his return to Real Madrid on a three-year contract. The former Chelsea manager plans to head straight to the training ground to begin work immediately, opting to skip any formal press conference or welcoming ceremony until his new contract officially begins in the Spanish capital this July.

Jose Mourinho has taken to social media to pen a heartfelt goodbye to Benfica fans, players, and staff as he prepares to seal a blockbuster return to Real Madrid. The legendary Portuguese coach spent a single, productive season back at the Estadio da Luz, but the lure of a second stint in the Spanish capital has proved impossible to turn down.

Benfica have officially ushered in a new era at the Estadio da Luz by confirming Marco Silva has agreed to become their new head coach. The former Fulham boss arrives in Lisbon just as the legendary Jose Mourinho departs the club to secure a sensational return to Real Madrid.