Nigeria, Sept. 17 -- Despite leading by two goals, Benfica's Champions League 3-2 home loss to Qarabag astonished Lage's departure. Stunned followers were left by the crash, which also spurred the board under president Rui Costa to move quickly to find a fresh leader able to reclaim passion and pride.



The News Chronicle reported that Mourinho was sacked by Fenerbahce in late August after being defeated in the Champions League play-offs by Benfica themselves, and is open to coming back to Portugal. 21 years after leaving for Chelsea in 2004, where he launched his famous European managerial career, sources indicate he regards Benfica as a chance to reconnect with his country.



Though he stressed how important it is for the next coach...