Mourinho Apologizes to Arbeloa for Celebratory Outburst Following Benfica’s Victory

omidbasir- José Mourinho publicly apologized to Real Madrid coach Álvaro Arbeloa for his exuberant celebrations following Benfica’s thrilling 4-2 victory in the Champions League on Wednesday.

The dramatic 98th-minute header from goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin at the Estadio da Luz secured Benfica’s qualification for the knockout phase playoffs by a narrow margin. The last-minute goal ignited jubilant scenes in Lisbon, prompting Mourinho’s coaching staff and substitutes to rush onto the pitch. The former Real Madrid manager was seen exuberantly celebrating in front of Arbeloa, a former player and friend.

In the post-match press conference, Mourinho addressed the incident, stating, “I apologize for how I celebrated. But Álvaro is a football man, and he understood perfectly that in that moment, you forget that it’s Real Madrid, and that’s Álvaro on the bench, along with [Madrid delegate] Chendo and all your people. In that moment, you forget everything. I’ve apologized.”

Mourinho coached Arbeloa during his tenure at the Bernabéu from 2010 to 2013, during which Arbeloa became one of his key on-field leaders. Reflecting on their relationship, Arbeloa remarked, “For me, it was a privilege and an honor to be coached by José Mourinho. He influenced me a lot … If I try to be José Mourinho, I’ll fail spectacularly.”

Benfica’s European campaign began with four consecutive defeats, leading to increased pressure on Mourinho as his team trails rivals Porto and Sporting in the Portuguese league. “I’m in a phase where I think less about myself and more about the players and the club,” Mourinho commented on Wednesday.