The coaching carousel in Portugal is preparing for a high-speed spin. According to major reports from ESPN and A Bola on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, a massive "domino effect" is being planned for the summer that would see the two biggest names in Portuguese management swap seats.
The catalyst? José Mourinho’s long-awaited move to the international stage.
The Dominoes: Step-by-Step
Mourinho to Portugal 🇵🇹: The Portuguese Football Federation (FPF) has reportedly identified Mourinho as the "only choice" to succeed Roberto Martínez, whose contract expires after the 2026 World Cup. Mourinho, currently managing Benfica, has never hidden his desire to lead his country in a major tournament.
The Vacancy at Luz 🏟️: If Mourinho moves to the national team this summer, Benfica will exercise a "break clause" in his contract (valid until 2027) to allow him to depart with their blessing.
Amorim’s Homecoming 🦅: Rúben Amorim, currently a free agent after his January sacking by Manchester United, is the "unanimous" favorite to take the reins at the Estádio da Luz. Despite his success at rivals Sporting CP, Amorim spent nine years at Benfica as a player and is still a beloved figure among the decision-makers at the club.
The "Amorim" Redemption Arc
For Rúben Amorim, this move represents a chance to rebuild his reputation after a difficult 14-month spell at Old Trafford.
The Reputation: While the Premier League proved a challenge, Amorim remains one of Europe's most tactically respected young coaches.
The Connection: Amorim is a self-confessed Benfica fan who played over 150 games for the club.
The Strategy: Benfica’s board reportedly views Amorim as the perfect "modern" successor to Mourinho—someone who can continue the club's dominance while integrating the world-class youth talent from the Seixal academy.
The Verdict: This move makes perfect sense for all parties. Portugal gets the "serial winner" they want for the 2028 Euros, Mourinho fulfills his career goal, and Rúben Amorim gets a high-profile platform to prove his Manchester United spell was just a blip.