Jose Mourinho makes major Fenerbahce admission after hiring at Benfica

The club’s hierarchy has also pointed to his wealth of experience at some of Europe’s biggest sides, including Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid and Manchester United, as evidence he can push the Eagles back toward continental relevance.

For Mourinho, the move represents not just a return to familiar ground, but also a restoration of status after what he concedes was a misstep abroad.

"My career has been rich so far, I've coached the biggest clubs in the world in different countries. I made one wrong choice… but it’s no regrets," Mourinho told reporters, via Guardian Football. "...But the awareness of what we did well and what we did badly exists. It was a mistake to go to Fenerbahce. It wasn’t my cultural level, it wasn't my level in terms of football."

Jose Mourinho wants to re-establish himself

The remarks showcased Mourinho's frustrations in Istanbul. Despite the initial fanfare, Mourinho’s time at Fenerbahce ultimately fell flat. Yet he was quick to stress that his effort never dropped, insisting he worked at full commitment until his departure.

In Lisbon, the tone was more defiant. His words will resonate with fans eager for renewed ambition. While Benfica remain a powerhouse in Portuguese football, they have lifted just one league title in the past six seasons, and their European shortcomings were highlighted again by a shock 3-2 home defeat to Qarabag FK on Tuesday.

Mourinho has made clear he does not view his return as a step back, but as an opportunity to re-establish himself among the elite. After a bruising chapter in Turkey, his Portugal homecoming begins with intent, expectation and no shortage of that trademark Mourinho bite.