Jose Mourinho 'rejects' opportunity to become top club manager

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Jose Mourinho has ruled out a quick-fire return to management with Benfica.

The sacked Manchester United boss was sounded out about a return to his homeland following the sacking of Rui Vitoria.

The Primeira Liga giants parted ways with the 48-year-old last Thursday, ending his three-and-a-half year spell at the club.

Vitoria had led Benfica to back-to-back league titles at the club but has seen his side struggle to keep pace with Porto this term.

A 2-0 defeat to Portimonense on Wednesday proved to be the last straw.

Benfica want a big name to replace him.

But according to Record , that name won't be Mourinho, even on a short term deal until the end of the season.

They claim the Portuguese was approached but despite not giving them an outright 'no' he indicated returning to Benfica is not in his plans at the moment.

Even the high wages of Mourinho was not considered a problem for Benfica bosses - who believed his benefits far outweigh the outlay.

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Mourinho was sacked as Manchester United manager in December.

The Portuguese returned to his home nation after being axed and was spotted in the stands watching Vitoria de Setubal host Santa Clara.

Mourinho is very well regarded at Benfica in his home county.

The 55-year-old began his managerial career at the club and led the side to six wins from 11 games.

Mourinho only lasted three months at Benfica after a breakdown in contract discussions.

Benfica may now look to the likes Vitoria Guimarães boss Luis Castro, who recently turned down the Reading job.