Jose Mourinho returned to the Santiago Bernabéu but chose not to show himself publicly, as Benfica faced elimination, while he humorously deflected questions about Kylian Mbappé's injury.
Jose Mourinho made a notable return to the Santiago Bernabéu, having not been seen publicly in an official match since his departure from Real Madrid in 2013. He planned to observe the playoff match between Benfica and Real Madrid from the press box but opted to stay hidden in the team bus, watching as his side faced elimination. His absence from the press room added an element of intrigue, particularly considering his former connection with the club.
The match marked a significant milestone for Mourinho, emphasizing the long gap since his last official appearance when he was under pressure from results and fan sentiment. His comedic remarks about Kylian Mbappé's injury emphasized his usual flair for theatrics, hinting at details that he would not disclose. This situation presents a vivid contrast to his earlier days at Madrid, where he navigated both intense media scrutiny and fan expectations.
Overall, Mourinho's return was a mix of nostalgia and tension, encapsulating his unique relationship with both the press and the football community. While Benfica faced a tough outcome, Mourinho’s strategic non-appearance generated discussions around press relations and player health disclosures, especially regarding high-profile players like Mbappé. His decision to remain out of sight may have been tactical, aiming to avoid further scrutiny but ultimately served to heighten the drama surrounding the event.
