Jose Mourinho warns Chelsea, “I am not a Blue now,” before their Champions League reunion with Benfica.
Real-time scores on Goal.com UEFA Champions League 2025–2026 League Phase MD2: SL Benfica Training Session and Press Conference SCORES LATEST COMPETITIONS INDIVISA MUNDIAL GOALSTUDIO SHOP Getty Pictures Matthew Judge in sports 09/29/2025 at 19:47+01:00 Jose Mourinho issues a warning to Chelsea before their Champions League rematch with Benfica: “I am not a Blue now.” Mourinho J. Chelsea Benfica Chelsea vs. Benfica in the Champions League On his eagerly awaited return to Stamford Bridge, Jose Mourinho has cautioned Chelsea that he would not be feeling nostalgic as he tries to guide Benfica to victory. When the Portuguese powerhouses play Enzo Maresca’s Blues in the most recent round of Champions League matches on Tuesday night, the Special One returns to his old haunt.
Even though Mourinho admits that Chelsea will always be “home,” he intends to control his emotions when he rejoins Benfica on the Stamford Bridge touchline.
“I am feeling at home,” Mourinho told reporters prior to Tuesday’s game. I have previously played here for Manchester United, Inter, and Spurs. However, I am no longer a Blue. My name is Red. I also want to succeed. I anticipate that both sides will want to win. After losing the first game [against Bayern Munich], Chelsea will only aim for a win. To win the game, we will need to play strong defense. Our strategy is to attempt to win the game.
“In this competition [the Champions League], we have Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Newcastle.” These games are all challenging. We must therefore pursue the points tomorrow. Our Champions League matches are more difficult than Chelsea’s.
And despite his presence in the opposing dugout, Mourinho is convinced his trophy-laden stints at Chelsea will mean he will not be jeered by supporters, adding: “I don’t think Chelsea fans will boo me. At least they ask me for photos and selfies when I’m out on the street.