Jose Mourinho returns to Stamford Bridge: Will there be a special welcome?

Chelsea has confirmed that there will be no tribute or welcoming ceremony when Jose Mourinho arrives back at Stamford Bridge with Benfica in the Champions League, despite the glories the "Special One" once brought to the club.

Jose Mourinho recently resumed his coaching career by taking charge of Benfica after leaving Fenerbahce. Next week, he will lead the Portuguese team to Stamford Bridge for a Champions League match. However, Chelsea insists there will be no special reception for the man who delivered three Premier League titles.

According to The Sun, before signing with Benfica, Mourinho had considered attending some Chelsea matches this season. Although the relationship between both sides has cooled over the years, his family still lives in London. Stamford Bridge, where he worked twice, is regarded as his "second home."

Nevertheless, Chelsea has no plans to roll out the red carpet. There will be no tribute ceremony or welcoming message. The club's management wants to focus on the match rather than revive the controversial past with the "Special One."

In the past, Mourinho returned to Stamford Bridge with Manchester United and Tottenham. Most notably in 2017, a group of young Chelsea fans called him "Judas." Unfazed, Mourinho raised three fingers to remind them that he was the only one to bring three Premier League titles to the club.

Although his departure was not perfect, Mourinho’s influence on Chelsea remains significant. He laid the foundation for a successful era, turning The Blues from a rising power into a true force. Yet his strong personality and internal conflicts also led to several noisy exits.

The upcoming match is not only a Champions League encounter but also Mourinho’s first return to Stamford Bridge since 2020. For Chelsea, it is simply an important game. For Mourinho, it is a moment to remind everyone that he is part of the Bridge’s history—both glorious and contentious.