On March 1, Mourinho attended the pre-match press conference for the Portuguese league match against Gil Vicente, where he discussed recent hot topics surrounding the team.
Mourinho stated, "If it's proven that my player has violated the principles I and Benfica uphold, then his career under me is over. I have feelings for my players, but I don't offer unconditional protection. If he is indeed guilty, I won't look at him the same way again; that's the end of it for me."
Speaking about the future and rumors of a return to Real Madrid, Mourinho raised his voice: "When people say the match against Real Madrid is my chance to return, they're ignoring a crucial point. I've said in this press conference that I could absolutely refuse Florentino. Do you think I would say something like that if I wanted to leave Benfica for Real Madrid? Do you think I'm stupid? I was very objective then; I clearly stated that I didn't want to go to Real Madrid, I only wanted to stay at Benfica. I have many flaws, but I'm not stupid."
"I want to honor my contract with Benfica. If the club wants to extend it for many years, I will sign it without hesitation, without changing a single word. But I only want to focus on one competition, not two."