Xavi, Iraola, and Motta Considered as Mourinho's Successors

Reports in Portugal have highlighted Xavi Hernandez, Andoni Iraola, and Thiago Motta as potential replacements for José Mourinho at Benfica. As Mourinho prepares to return to Real Madrid after the 2025-26 season, the Benfica sporting director Rui Costa is contemplating various scenarios for the future. According to Record, the club has already begun to evaluate possible international coaches who could be available at the end of the season or could soon be freed from their current contracts.

Iraola, currently at Bournemouth, has confirmed that he will end his tenure at the club after this campaign. The Spanish coach, aged 43, is leaving the English side despite being linked to other clubs, such as Bayer Leverkusen. His successful season in the Premier League places him as a close candidate for Benfica's coaching position.

In terms of immediate availability, Xavi Hernández and Thiago Motta are considered more accessible options. Both coaches are currently without a job and are looking for new opportunities. Xavi left FC Barcelona in 2024 after three successful seasons, during which he secured a league title. Motta performed well at Bologna before starting the season at Juventus, though his time at the Turin club ended prematurely.

Benfica is already making moves, with Marco Silva, the current Fulham manager, having expressed interest in the role. Silva, whose contract expires in June, has reportedly received a preliminary offer from Benfica for a potential move to Da Luz.