Benfica manager José Mourinho will not address the media ahead of his side’s highly anticipated UEFA Champions League return leg against Real Madrid, the club has officially confirmed.
According to reports shared by Fabrizio Romano, Mourinho has opted out of the traditional pre-match press conference scheduled before the clash at the Santiago Bernabéu. Instead, midfielder João Tralhão and another Benfica player will represent the club in front of the media.
The decision comes at a tense moment in the tie, with Benfica under pressure to overturn the result against the reigning European giants. Mourinho’s absence from media duties has sparked debate, with many interpreting it as a strategic move to shield his squad from external noise and maintain focus ahead of a decisive night in Madrid.
Mourinho, known for his psychological approach to big matches, has previously used silence and controlled communication as tools to manage pressure. His choice not to speak publicly before such a crucial fixture suggests he is prioritizing preparation on the training ground rather than engaging in pre-match narratives.