Jose Mourinho has revealed that he is yet to review Benfica’s contract extension offer despite growing speculation linking him with a return to Real Madrid.
The Portuguese manager confirmed that discussions over his future have been postponed until after Benfica conclude the current season.
Reports in Spain have linked Mourinho with the Real Madrid job following uncertainty surrounding Alvaro Arbeloa’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
Speaking ahead of Benfica’s final league match against Estoril, Mourinho disclosed that he deliberately avoided reviewing the renewal proposal presented by the club.
He said: “Yes, I received a contract renewal offer from Benfica on Wednesday.
“The offer was given to my agent, but I didn’t want to see it, find out about it, or analyze it.
“I’ll only do that starting Sunday, I’d say Sunday.”
The former Chelsea, Manchester United and Real Madrid coach added that Benfica officials respected his decision to focus fully on the season.
“They never told me they had an offer to show me.
“Not the president, nor any important person in the organisation.
“But if they had told me, I would have answered exactly the same way,” Mourinho said.
The Portuguese tactician also stressed that discussions regarding his future would become clearer once the campaign ends.
“Next week will be important for me, for my future, and also for Benfica.
“When the season ends, Benfica has to start thinking about the next one.
“But, according to the contract and the agreement I signed when I arrived, we have this period of a few days to see what happens and make a decision,” he stated.
Mourinho also insisted that no individual is bigger than Benfica as speculation over his future continues to intensify.
“Benfica is much bigger than me; there’s no comparison.
“It’s bigger than everyone, any coach, player, president, anyone.
“Therefore, as far as my personal situation is concerned, I think there’s no reason to worry, because the club is bigger than everyone, and there’s no need to worry if someone leaves,” Mourinho added.
