Benfica manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that he prefers lifting a championship trophy over finishing a football season undefeated. Despite navigating the entire domestic campaign without a single loss, the Portuguese giants shockingly failed to qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
The legendary tactician expressed his frustration during a post-match press conference following his team’s final fixture of the season. Mourinho stated clearly that he would have loved to finish the grueling campaign with a tangible trophy to celebrate with the fans.
Managers reacts to first career invincible record
The former Real Madrid and Chelsea manager acknowledged that maintaining an unbeaten streak is a remarkable achievement in modern football. He noted that this is the very first time in his long coaching career that he has achieved an invincible status.
Mourinho revealed that he never managed an undefeated run even while winning eight league championships across Europe. He insisted that he would gladly exchange the historic invincible record for a league title with two or three defeats.
Striker trio secures final day victory for Benfica
Benfica rounded off their league campaign on a high note with a commanding 3-1 victory over Estoril. Crucial goals from Richard Rios, Alexander Bah, and Rafa secured the maximum three points for the home side during the encounter.
However, the victory offered little consolation for the fans as the club misses out on Europe’s elite tier competition next season. The board is now expected to review the squad’s performance to address the drawing of too many matches.
Tactical review ahead of next football season
Football analysts believe that Mourinho’s conservative tactical approach contributed significantly to the high number of stalemates. These drawing results ultimately cost the club the valuable points needed to secure the league crown.
The Portuguese manager must now re-strategize with his technical crew ahead of the upcoming football calendar. Supporters remain hopeful that the veteran coach can deliver silverware to the club in his second season.
