Mourinho: Though Decorated with Numerous Honors, I Still Crave to Win Titles

In the semi-final of the Taça da Liga, Benfica will take on Braga. José Mourinho is leading his side to fight for a spot in the final and was asked about his title aspirations at the pre-match press conference.

Journalist: For Mourinho, who has already won every honor there is to win, what significance would it hold to claim the Taça da Liga just a few months after returning to Benfica, which would also be your first title with the club?

Mourinho: “Personally, whether it’s 26 trophies or 27... it won’t change much, but I’m eager to make it happen, eager for this victory to come. For Benfica, one more or one less Taça da Liga, one more or one less trophy in the trophy room, won’t rewrite the club’s history. Right now, what truly drives this pursuit is the joy of the fans and this deserving team—they are worthy of this glory. I look at this squad: it’s a great group, wonderful people, they are friendly, these young lads never cause trouble, they are hardworking and efficient, supporting each other. Both the players and the backroom staff have shown extraordinary dedication. It’s for all of them that I so badly want to win this title.”

The 62-year-old Mourinho began his coaching career at Sporting CP, having also managed Benfica, União de Leiria, Porto, Chelsea, Inter Milan, Real Madrid, Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur, Roma and Fenerbahçe over his 25-year coaching tenure. He has claimed a total of 26 trophies throughout his career; among all the teams where he completed full seasons, only his spells at Tottenham Hotspur and Fenerbahçe ended without a title.

Mourinho’s 26 Career Trophies