Mourinho plays down Napoli fears: ‘Benfica have absences too but I do not cry about it’

José Mourinho insists Benfica’s injury problems are more damaging than Napoli’s ahead of their Champions League meeting, but warned that Antonio Conte’s side have become “a better team” after changing system.

Speaking on the eve of the key league phase match, with quotes via La Repubblica, Mourinho pushed back against the idea that Napoli’s missing stars would tilt the balance. “Not having De Bruyne or having McTominay is the same,” he said, drawing a comparison to illustrate squad depth rather than individuals.

“Napoli’s bench is different, if you look at who plays, you forget who is missing. By changing their system, they have become a better team.”

The coach admitted his own list of absentees is significant, but stressed he has no interest in excuses: “I have heavy absences, but I don’t want to cry.”

Benfica arrive with only three points after four defeats, despite strong performances that ultimately collapsed on details. Mourinho pointed to recent matches as evidence his side are not structurally fragile.

“Against Chelsea we played an excellent game and lost to an own goal. It’s been the same in the league. We always lose because of individual mistakes, but tactically the team is stronger,” he said, adding that his knowledge of Napoli may help, though not decisively.

He also praised the evolution of Conte’s side. Mourinho argued that Napoli’s current identity makes them far more dangerous than the version seen in the opening months. “It doesn’t mean their qualities are inferior,” he explained.

“They’re a very strong team, they won two league titles in a short period. Right now they play very differently and I like them more now than before. Conte’s teams are never weak, there’s compactness, tactical awareness, and he always builds strong squads.”

Mourinho refused to give any hints on his line-up, noting that many of his 23-man squad could be debutants or academy players. “What happens with the market occupies zero space in my mind. Tomorrow only the result matters. We must win. As long as mathematics gives me hope, I’ll fight for qualification.”