Special One out: Benfica eye Ruben Amorim if Mourinho takes Portugal role

Lisbon's football world is buzzing with one of the juiciest rumours in years: Benfica have zeroed in on Ruben Amorim as their top choice to replace Jose Mourinho if the Special One answers the call to coach Portugal's national team.

Fabrizio Romano reports the Eagles are plotting this seismic shift, eyeing a homecoming that could ignite the fiercest rivalry in Portuguese football.

The dominoes started falling with the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF). Roberto Martínez's contract expires after the 2026 FIFA World Cup this summer in North America, paving the way for Mourinho, who's currently thriving at Benfica, to step up.

Mourinho, a lifelong Portugal devotee, has openly shared his regrets: "My destiny is to play in a World Cup with the Portuguese national team... my first [international] experience has to be with Portugal."

Fans have long dreamed of him leading the Selecao, blending his tactical genius with national pride.

Enter Ruben Amorim, the 41-year-old tactician Benfica sees as the perfect heir. His credentials scream redemption arc:

Amorim shattered Sporting CP's 19-year title drought in 2021, becoming a Lisbon derby villain for Benfica supporters.

However, he spent nine years as a Benfica player and with boyhood allegiance to the club, he's no stranger to the Estádio da Luz.

Sacked by Manchester United after a rocky 14-month stint ending this January, a return to Portugal offers fresh start vibes.

Benfica president Rui Costa holds an exit clause in Mourinho's deal, allowing a smooth season-end transition, but it all hinges on the FPF's post-World Cup approach.

This Special One swap could redefine Portuguese football, pitting Mourinho's global aura against Amorim's fiery youth.

Benfica faithful are divided: nostalgia for their ex-player versus fury over his Sporting legacy. As the World Cup looms, all eyes are on Lisbon.