Who would say not to this Portuguese giant? - Mourinho arrives for talks
The veteran manager declares he is close to being named the Lisbon-based club manager after landing in Lisbon for discussions with the Portuguese club.
The 62-year-old is poised to replace Bruno Lage, who was let go following Tuesday's Champions League loss at home against the Azerbaijani side.
Mourinho has only been out of work for less than a month after being released by the Turkish outfit.
"Benfica formally asked me if I was keen. What coach says no to such an opportunity? Certainly not I," he told the media after arriving in the city. "After I was presented with the opportunity to coach Benfica, I didn't hesitate to say that I'm interested, that I'd like to."
Mourinho began his managerial career with the club in 2000 but managed only 10 games and departed after a dispute with the club chairman.
Mourinho then made his name with FC Porto between 2002-2004, winning six titles - including the Champions League in the 2003-2004 season.
Since leaving his native country in 2004, Mourinho has managed Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, United, Spurs, Roma and the Turkish club.
The coach left the Istanbul side on August 29, two days after they were eliminated from the UCL qualifiers by the Portuguese team.
If they appoint him, he would face Chelsea in the European competition at their home ground on September 30.
Benfica also visit Newcastle and welcome the Spanish giants later in the league phase of the tournament.
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