Mourinho repeats famous ‘99 percent’ line as Real Madrid rumors explode

José Mourinho has once again used the famous phrase that football fans remember from 2010, and naturally the rumors about a return to Real Madrid have exploded even more.

The Portuguese coach claimed there is a “99 percent” chance he will remain at Benfica, but supporters in Spain know exactly why those words are creating excitement.

Sixteen years ago, Mourinho made almost the identical statement while coaching Inter. Shortly afterward, he left Italy and joined Real Madrid.

Now history could be repeating itself.

Mourinho completed the Portuguese season unbeaten with Benfica, an impressive achievement on paper. Yet the campaign still ended with frustration.

Despite avoiding defeat, Benfica finished only third in the league and failed to qualify for next season’s Champions League. The Lisbon giants will instead play in the Europa League.

At the same time, speculation about Mourinho returning to Madrid continues growing stronger.

Several Spanish journalists already believe the deal is close, while reports linking Mourinho with the Bernabeu have intensified throughout recent weeks.

The experienced coach has handled the questions carefully.

Before the season ended, Mourinho insisted he would not discuss his future publicly. He also claimed he had received no direct contact from Real Madrid representatives.

Then came the now-famous percentage statement.

Of course, many observers immediately noticed the similarities with 2010.

Back then, Mourinho also publicly suggested he was likely to stay before eventually accepting Real Madrid’s offer and beginning one of the most emotional and controversial periods in modern Spanish football.

Mourinho coached Real between 2010 and 2013, winning La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Spanish Super Cup while building a fierce rivalry with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona.

Now fans are waiting to see whether the “Special One” is preparing another dramatic move to the Santiago Bernabeu.