Overview
- Speaking after Benfica's win at Rio Ave, José Mourinho replied to questions about a Bernabéu return by saying, "Don't count on me for soap operas."
- Mourinho has been in charge of Benfica since September and is under contract through June 2027.
- Real Madrid parted ways with Xabi Alonso last week and named reserve-team boss Álvaro Arbeloa as interim head coach.
- Days after a Copa del Rey loss to Albacete, supporters jeered during a league win over Levante, and Arbeloa said fans were right to express dissatisfaction.
- Spanish outlet Cadena SER has reported that Arbeloa's position is not fully secure, and Benfica host Real Madrid in the Champions League on January 28.