Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca paid tribute to his legendary predecessor, José Mourinho, ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Benfica.

With Mourinho recently appointed as the head coach of the Portuguese club, the clash marks a high-profile return to Stamford Bridge for the man widely regarded as Chelsea's greatest-ever manager.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Maresca expressed his excitement and respect for the "Special One," calling the encounter a big moment.

"It's a privilege to face Jose. He was a legend for this club, and for other ones as well," Maresca said.

Maresca elaborated on his admiration for the Portuguese coach, emphasising Mourinho's broader impact on the sport.

"Absolutely, yes [I'm looking forward to facing him]. He's a legend for the club, he's a legend in general for the trophies and achievements," the Italian manager confirmed.

Mourinho enjoyed two hugely successful spells at Stamford Bridge (2004–2007 and 2013–2015), during which he delivered three Premier League titles, three League Cups, and one FA Cup.

Mourinho's appointment at Benfica earlier this month marked a return to the club where his senior managerial career first began in 2000.

His comeback has set up a series of emotionally charged reunions, with the fixture against Chelsea being the first major European clash in his new role.